MILL Culture and lifestyle for Paisley and Renfrewshire Mhairi Black MP Scotland’s Best Photographer Student Fashion Shoot
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CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 04 HELLO! A few words from our editor 06 WHAT’S ON Our jam-packed events guide
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FEATURES 11 POP An exciting new creative space 14 THE SMA’ SHOT COTTAGES One of Paisley’s best tourist attractions 16 INTERVIEW Mhairi Black, SNP MP for Paisley & Renfrewshire South 18 INGLISTON COUNTRY CLUB & HOTEL A luxury experience 20 PHOTOGRAPHY Award-winning local photographer Graeme Hewitson 28 RENFREWSHIRE TOTS Fun activities for you and your little ‘uns 32 INTERVIEW St Mirren hero Tony Fitzpatrick 50 BISHOPTON Your local guide 60 TASTE BUDS Tapas is all the rage at this Paisley café 66 PEOPLE Artist and social historian Lil Brookes LIFESTYLE 27 SHOPPING Paisley picks 34 BEAUTY Acid tests and dermal fillers 39 PILLOW TALK Morrison’s Bed Centre 40 FASHION Exclusive summer nights shoot 46 INTERIORS Soft furnishings 49 PROPERTY Market momentum 63 FOOD & DRINK Lunch at Papamacs and dinner at The Boarding House CULTURE 52 INTERVIEW The Unthanks 54 MUSIC Gig and album tips 58 ENTERTAINMENT A round-up of the best new TV shows, films, DVDs and books
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INTRODUCTION
Hello! Welcome, folks, to the fifth issue of Mill. In this bumper beano spring edition we’re delighted to present interviews with our brilliant local MP Mhairi Black, garlanded folk group The Unthanks, bestselling crime author Alex Gray and St Mirren legend Tony Fitzpatrick. We also showcase the prestigiously awardwinning work of local photographer Graeme Hewitson, bask in the welcoming luxury surroundings of Ingliston Country Club & Hotel, take a fascinating trip back in time via Paisley’s beautifully preserved Sma’ Shot Cottages and introduce an exciting new creative space by the name of POP. You can also pull up a chair with some album recommendations from DJ Vic Galloway, a love letter to Bishopton, a celebration of the Renfrewshire Tots scheme and a tapas night at Taste Buds in Paisley, plus succulent reviews of Papamacs in Johnstone and The Boarding House in Howwood. Yes, we’ve been busy, hopefully with a view to keeping you busy too. We’ve also hired some new contributors this time, all of whom delivered sterling work. You’ll enjoy their eruditions, I’m sure. Thanks, as always, to every single one of you for supporting Mill. Keep on rocking in the free magazine world.
MILL
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Culture and lifestyle for Paisley and Renfrewshire Mhairi Black MP Scotland’s Best Photographer Student Fashion Shoot
Cover photo by Emily Worms, necklace, £14.99, Ivad Gifts. Turn to p40 for our summer fashion feature.
Published by Mill Magazine Ltd. 115 Abercorn Street Paisley PA3 4AT Editor: Paul Whitelaw Director: Paul Dickson Beauty Editor: Susie Cormack Bruce Travel Editor: David Walsh Interiors Editor: Carine Seitz Sub Editor: Alistair Forrest Contributors: Levi Black, Chris Costello, Jem Craig, Paul English, Alan K. Gray, Graeme Hewitson, Colin Horn, Rebecca Johnstone, Juliette Jones, Stacey Jones, Nadine McBay, Brian McGuire, Carly McGurn, Beki Melrose, Brian Moyes, Kirsteen Paterson, James Stevenson, Alister Thorpe, Emily Worms
We want to hear from you, get in touch via email: info�millmagazine.co.uk
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Paul Whitelaw Paul Whitelaw, Editor
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WHAT'S ON
Our luxurious guide to some of the big events taking place near you in May and June.
MON 6 MAY 7.30PM
THE WEE HOWFF OPEN MIC NIGHT
On the first Monday of every month, local singer-songwriter Graeme Kerr – who uses loops and beatboxing to flesh out his solo acoustic sound – hosts this welcoming open mic event, where performers are treated to a free drink and a slice of pizza. First Monday of the month, The Wee Howff, Paisley, free.
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY This popular annual event does what it says on the brightly coloured tin: free comics for all. Guaranteed to please comic-lovers and comic-curious novices of all ages, it’s a fun family day out which should, in an ideal world, introduce young children to the wonders of this art form. Comicrazy, Paisley, free. SAT 4 MAY
WED 8 MAY 6PM
USER NOT FOUND
What happens to our digital identities after we die? You may find out during this intimate interactive comedy-drama. You’ll receive a smartphone and some headphones as a grief-stricken protagonist wrestles with whether to keep or delete his partner’s online existence. Also at 8.30pm, Paisley Arts Centre, from £8.
FRI 10 MAY
RENFREWSHIRE VACMA AWARD LAUNCH
The Visual Artist and Craft Makers Awards (VACMA) are a programme of small grant schemes aimed at supporting Scotland-based visual artists and craft makers. The Renfrewshire-focused rounds will be launched with a one-to-one advice surgery for applicants with an advisor from Creative Scotland. POP space, Piazza shopping centre, Paisley, free. Check our feature on page 11 for more details.
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WHAT’S ON
SUN 12 MAY MIDDAY
GOUROCK HIGHLAND GAMES
The first games of the Scottish season celebrate their 63rd anniversary this year. Highlights include bagpipers galore, the West of Scotland Highland Dance Championships, food, drink and entertainment in the Taste Inverclyde tent and, of course, traditional games such as caber tossing and lifting the Kempock Stane. Battery Park, Inverclyde, free.
SAT 11 MAY 12.15PM
HOUSTON & KILLELLAN KIRK CARNIVAL
It’s time to don your capes and tights as this fun annual event adopts a superhero theme. As well as a grand fancy-dress parade, the carnival also promises live music and dance, numerous food, clothing and toy stalls plus sideshow activities including a coconut shy, a bouncy castle and bungee. Houston & Killellan Kirk, free.
SUN 12 MAY 1PM
THE WILD WEST SHOW
Ever-popular children’s entertainers Fun Box, formerly of the Singing Kettle, ride back into town with their brand new all-singing, all-dancing rodeo spectacular. Cowboys and cowgirls of all ages are encouraged to arrive in fancy dress. Also at 3.30pm. Johnstone Town Hall, from £12.
THU 16 MAY 7.30PM
LEAH MACRAE - MY BIG FAT FABULOUS DIARY
MacRae, whose acting credits include River City, Gary: Tank Commander and the hit stage comedy 51 Shades of Maggie, presents a vibrant one-woman show encompassing an array of tall tales, daft songs and even a big ballad or two. Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, £22.
FRI 17 MAY 7.30PM
THE DARK CARNIVAL: UNPLUGGED
This irreverent musical theatre spectacle follows newcomers to the afterlife as they make a startling discovery: death is just the start of an eternal party. However, a mysterious event throws the future of their afterlives into uncertainty. As if that weren’t enticing enough, audience members will also receive a free glass of whisky. 17 MAY. 7.30pm, Paisley Arts Centre, from £8.
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WHAT’S ON
SAT 18 MAY 9AM
BRITISH PIPE BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS One of the world’s biggest piping events returns to Paisley for the third year running. Marvel at the sight and sound of a crack squad of over 4,000 elite-level pipers as they compete for a range of highly prestigious titles. St James Playing Fields, Paisley, free.
SAT 25 MAY 8PM SAT 18 MAY 2.30PM
TEARDROP ALL-DAYER
Local indie label Lead Boot Records (see Mill #2) present this generous buffet of Renfrewshire bands including Paris Street Rebels, Black Tiles (pictured) The Stoned Immaculate and Velveteen Riot. More info can be found at facebook.com/LeadBootRecords. The Bungalow, Paisley, £10.
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JON RONSON - TALES FROM LAST DAYS OF AUGUST & THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT
In this brand new show, investigative journalist and humourist Jon Ronson recounts his recent adventures in the adult entertainment industry. A humane, witty storyteller par excellence, the author of bestselling books such as The Psychopath Test promises to gently lift the lid on a mysterious world of kindness, sadness, dark thoughts and violence. City Halls, Glasgow, £25
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WHAT’S ON
1 & 27 JUN 7.30PM
THE BENNY LYNCH STORY
Scotland’s first ever boxing world champion achieved superstardom before tragically dying at the age of only 33. You don’t have to be a fan of boxing to enjoy this unflinching play about Lynch’s short yet tumultuous life, which stars popular Scottish actors Stephen Purdon (River City) and David Hayman (Trial & Retribution). Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, £20. 7.30pm, Eastwood Park Theatre, Giffnock, from £15.
SUN 26 MAY 1PM
FOX AND HOUNDS BEER & MUSIC FESTIVAL
Over 30 quality beers can be sampled (responsibly) at this family-friendly hoedown. If beer isn’t your thing, you can also enjoy various wines, spirits, ciders and soft drinks. Live music comes from the likes of Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootahs and Drums N’ Roses. Fox and Hounds, Houston, free.
SUN 2 JUN 1PM
RENFREW GALA DAY
This fun-filled family hootenanny offers a whole host of live entertainment, including music, dance, funfair rides, free activities for kids and a dress-up parade. Robertson Park, Renfrew, free
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8-9 JUN 10AM
PLAY EXPO
Bigger and better than ever before, this giant event is a must for gaming fans. It promises tournaments, Cosplay, Minecraft, modern and retro consoles, classic arcade and pinball machines, board games, merchandise and so much more. Braehead Arena, Renfrew, from £10.
FEATURES
POPSCENE An exciting new creative space for artists of all stripes is opening up in Paisley. Arts Project Producer Kate Drummond explains all.
T
Photography by Beki Melrose
he POP space, which is in the old post office shop in the Piazza, has been leased by Renfrewshire Leisure from Edinburgh Printmakers, who run a scheme making use of empty shop spaces. We’re looking at developing projects and art events in unusual spaces and places that aren’t normal venues. It’s a space that’s open for people to use, free of charge but bookable through myself. We encourage individuals and groups in
Renfrewshire who are making music or art or crafts or mindfulness, anything like that. We want it to be a really vibrant community arts venue. With that in mind, we’d like your readers to please get in touch with me if they’d like to use the space in any way. It’s quite a well-equipped space, we’ve got a fully rigged-up projector so we can show films in there, we can have talks and workshops and exhibitions. There’s lots of wall space. We’ve got a lot of stuff going on in May, including the launch of the Renfrewshire Mental Health Arts Festival on Tuesday 7th. Events we’re hosting as part of that programme include an Open Art Exhibition celebrating wellbeing and creativity, which runs from Wednesday 8th to Sunday 12th, a screening of the mindfulness documentary, Walk With Me, on Sunday 12th and an afternoon of board game workshops on Tuesday 21st. Also, on Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th we’re hosting The Choraphone in association with Soundplay Projects and Paisley Arts Centre. The Choraphone is a mesmerising interactive music and projection installation whereby participants can conduct a virtual vocal ensemble using simple controllers. The grand opening of the POP space on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th May involves free community events running from midday to 4pm, featuring family-friendly creative activities, community conversations, music performances and local film screenings. The POP space is located in the Piazza shopping centre, 15 Central Road, Paisley, PA1 1EL. For more information on how to book it, contact kate.drummond@renfrewshire.gov.uk.
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WHAT’S ON
7-8 JUN 11AM
SUMMER ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR
This crafty annual event is awash with stalls boasting a plethora of unique handmade gifts and treats. Johnstone Town Hall, free.
SAT 15 JUN 10AM
CARFEST
A glittering convoy of vehicles of all shapes and sizes will take pride of place at the sixth annual CarFest gathering. What’s more, it’s a fundraising event for St Vincent’s Hospice in Howwood. County Square, Paisley, free.
29 JUN TO 13 AUG
SAT 22 JUN MIDDAY
BARSHAW GALA DAY
An afternoon park party is guaranteed at this fantastic annual event. Highlights this year include a model train ride, a BMX area and a nature corner, as well as several play areas, fun inflatables, face painting, children’s workshops and lots of live entertainment. Barshaw Park, Paisley, free.
BRICKS IN SPACE SUMMER TRAIL
This cosmic sequel to last year’s highly successful Jurassic Bricks Summer Trail will transform Paisley town centre into a lunar fun-land. 15 LEGO Brick models will be spread throughout various businesses and there’s a chance for kids to find special hidden items with the aid of their free space passports. Check out paisleyfirst.com for more details. Paisley town centre, free.
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Sma’ wonders The Sma’ Shot Cottages in Paisley are one of the town’s most cherished tourist attractions.
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tepping back in time is easy when you have free access to the beautifully preserved likes of the Sma’ Shot Cottages. Originally built in the 1740s, the weaver’s cottage on Shuttle Street has been painstakingly restored to how it would’ve looked at the time. A short walk across the courtyard to Sma’ Shot Lane will bring you to three small cottages dressed with equal attention to detail. These modest buildings, which represent a key period in Renfrewshire’s industrial history, have been lovingly kept alive by the Old Paisley Society, a registered charity comprised of mostly elderly volunteers. Their benign leader is Cath Mitchell. “We try to keep an eye on what’s going on in the town and to preserve the history and heritage of Paisley,” Cath explains. “We don’t do much now apart from run the cottages. It used to be that we had monthly meetings, talks and whatnot, but elderly people don’t like going out in the evening so that’s gone away.”
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Nevertheless, overseeing this delightful little complex keeps them busy. Open to the public every year between April and September (on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday afternoons), the cottages are a popular stopping off point for locals and visitors. “We have a lovely garden in between the cottages,” says Cath, “so when it’s beautiful weather in Paisley – ha-ha – we have tables and chairs outside. We also have a working loom, which at the moment is the only working loom in Paisley. That’s because the museum is closed and all the other looms are down in the Secret Collection. Occasionally we have Dr Dan Caughlin coming in to operate the loom, as none of us can weave.” What else can people expect when they visit the cottages? “We have trained guides who will take you round. We also have a shop where you can buy the Paisley pins. They’re acrylic and
FEATURES
they’re made by a girl who’s actually working out of the Old Fire Station. She has a small factory in there and she makes these pins in the shape of a pound coin. Lovely colours.” Once you’ve absorbed this fascinating piece of living history, you can unwind with a visit to their tea room. “On a Wednesday and Saturday we supply homemade lunches – everything is homemade apart from the bread,” Cath explains. “We recently had a crowd of American tourists in, and they really went ‘wow’ over it because of our hand-embroidered tablecloths and so on. You don’t see things like that in America.” When the Old Paisley Society bought the cottages back in the ‘70s, they were in a state of disrepair. Their current condition is testament to the group’s tireless efforts. “These volunteers – this was before I joined – did so much work on the cottages. We occasionally go out and give talks where we show people slides of exactly what the cottages were like when we bought them. The one in Sma’ Shot Lane had every fungus and rot imaginable, wet rot, dry rot, you name it. The volunteers worked very, very hard indeed.” So what exactly is a sma’ shot? “In the weaving of the Paisley shawl, where the pattern is very intricate, for every seventh or
“
WHEN THE OLD PAISLEY SOCIETY BOUGHT THE COTTAGES BACK IN THE ‘70S, THEY WERE IN A STATE OF DISREPAIR. THEIR CURRENT CONDITION IS TESTAMENT TO THE GROUP’S TIRELESS EFFORTS eighth shot – that’s when the weaver puts the shuttle across the loom – they would put in a binding shot just to hold the pattern taut. And that was called the sma’ shot.” Cath also reveals that the ever-popular Sma’ Shot Day, an annual parade and multi-arts festival, originally came about due to good old-fashioned people power. “Unfortunately, the weavers didn’t get paid for their work,” says Cath. “They were a bit miffed, to put it mildly, so there were a lot of protests. At the end of the day they actually won, it was a bit like the wee man going up against the big man. In order to celebrate that they held Sma’ Shot Day. The mill owners used to take their workers away for a nice day out.” The parade is still led by the Charleston Drum, which was once beaten to summon the weavers for meetings. “The chap who beats the drum isn’t getting any younger either,” Cath smiles, “so in recent years they actually built a wee chariot for him!” The Sma’ Shot Cottages are located on Shuttle Street and Sma’ Shot Lane in Paisley. 0141 889 1708. smashotcottages.co.uk. This year’s Sma’ Shot Day takes place on 6th July in County Square, Paisley. facebook.com/paisleyis/.
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INTERVIEW
Black The SNP MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South, Mhairi Black was elected while still a student at the University of Glasgow. Words by Nadine McBay.
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Photo by Alister Thorpe, alisterthorpe.com
Mhairi
FEATURES
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n May of 2015, Mhairi Black became the youngest person to be elected to the House of Commons since the 1830s. Still the ‘baby of the House’ at the age of 24, Black is a vocal critic of the Conservative government's benefit and pension reforms and of the culture and practices of Westminster. A famously straight-talking supporter of Women Against State Pension Inequality and Partick Thistle FC, she took to Twitter last month to describe Brexit chaos as "an absolute riddy" for PM Theresa May. Here she talks about cutting her political teeth with Jim Sillars on the Margo-mobile, whether she will stand for election again and the biggest issue currently facing Renfrewshire. Your maiden speech in the Commons was viewed over 10 million times in less than a week. How did you learn to speak so confidently? During the 2014 referendum I started speaking to people and chapping doors. Eventually my lecturer asked me to be on the Yes side for a panel debate with Tommy Sheridan, Michelle Thompson, Ruth Davidson and James Kelly. I remember thinking, “Just answer the questions the best you can.” I was able to answer them, I had done my homework and the confidence then came naturally. I spoke at more meetings and then Jim Sillars took me on his Margo-mobile around Scotland. It was learning politics how you should learn it, through people. Was it exciting or a culture shock when you first went to Westminster? It was both of those things. When I first went, there was a guy cutting around the central lobby with a big hawk on his hand. It was to chase pigeons, apparently. Now you've been there for four years, how would you characterise it as a parliament? Inadequate in every sense. Through my understanding of what tools are available for the opposition parties and backbench MPs, it seems specifically designed to ensure you hit a dead end, no matter how hard you try. I wouldn't even say it's a parliament. It's a private club masquerading as one.
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PARLIAMENT IS INADEQUATE IN EVERY SENSE. I WOULDN’T EVEN SAY IT’S A PARLIAMENT. IT’S A PRIVATE CLUB MASQUERADING AS ONE.
Q&A
What would be the first thing you’d reform? The voting system. If it was in any other workplace, it would be thrown out in a heartbeat. Electronic voting would free up so much time. At present, you go out to the lobby, wait for eight minutes for the doors to be locked, then 200-odd people have to file back one by one. With the recent Brexit votes, there were times when the lobbies had around 400 people in them. You could be pressed up against people who have been accused of sexual harassment, people who are unsavoury to say the least. What's the most enjoyable part of being an MP at Westminster? Shouting at Tories! The most enjoyable part is speaking to members of staff. I've heard from multiple members of staff that the SNP group is the first group of MPs who have just been 'normal'. The abuse they get off some MPs is ridiculous. Some of the other MPs walk about like they’re royalty. Is there an achievement you’re particularly proud of ? Getting my degree.
FAVOURITE PART OF RENFREWSHIRE? Gleniffer Braes. BEST PLACE FOR DINNER? Butchers Steak & Grill in Elderslie, where we had our Christmas meal. BEST PLACE FOR COFFEE? I like a cup of tea in Malatso, Paisley. BEST PUB? The Bull in Paisley. Outside of Paisley, the Brown Bull in Lochwinnoch.
Are past reports true of you considering not to stand again? No. Utter nonsense. So long as I'm able to do the job to a standard that I think is needed, then I will happily keep doing it. I'm not putting a time limit on it though. Put it this way, if I was still in Westminster 20 years from now, I don't know if I'd be that happy about it. What in your view is the biggest issue currently facing the people of Renfrewshire? Brexit. Regardless of whether it's no deal or not, people are going to start to see things declining. I think it will be really bad. To give you an everyday example, I was talking to a friend just buying a wardrobe off a website. It was a German company. The guy wasn't doing a hard sell but he said: “If you want it, buy it now. After Brexit, the price is going to triple at least.” I don't think people are aware of the gravity of the situation. If it's a no deal Brexit, I think we're all going to get a shock. Follow Mhairi Black on Twitter via @MhairiBlack. Follow Nadine via @nadine_mcbay.
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HEARTBEAT HOTEL Ingliston Country Club & Hotel is one of Renfrewshire’s best kept secrets.
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legantly nestled against a beautiful backdrop of rolling hills, Ingliston is a sight to behold. It’s no wonder this multi-award-winning luxury countryside estate is regarded as one of Scotland’s premier hotel, weddings and events venues. We asked Head of HR and People Development, Elaine Sherlock, to explain why it’s such a unique and popular destination. “We’re a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away on the hills,” she says, “but if you know we’re here I can guarantee that you will have an experience that makes you want to come back again and again. We have a great team, a great restaurant, we have the hotel, lodges, hot tubs, the alpacas and beautiful walks.”
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How did Ingliston first come into being? Ingliston is owned by the Fraser family. Paul Fraser was a really successful businessman in Glasgow who has a wife and three daughters who are really crazy about horses. When Paul sold his business he wanted to do something that would keep him really close to the family, so Ingliston started life in 2007 as a stud farm. It was all to do with the horses, but since then it’s grown organically. People were coming for horse riding lessons and they needed somewhere to eat, so Paul created the restaurant, Palomino’s. Palomino’s became a big hit, didn’t it? Although it was initially intended for people with jodhpurs coming in for
a bite to eat, Paul realised there was a real market for people in the local area, Bishopton and Erskine, coming up to dine. It became established as a go-to place to eat, it has a nice fusion of Scottish and Italian fare made by great chefs using quality food. We also have a resident patisserie chef who makes beautiful cakes and so on, and we do Italian coffees. So whether you’re coming for cake and coffee or lunch or dinner, Palomino’s will do seven to eight hundred covers during the week and rising to a thousand on the weekend. How did Ingliston branch out into weddings? When it became an international equestrian centre that started to win lots and lots of awards,
FEATURES
©Number94 Photography
Upcoming events: INGLISTON SUMMER FAYRE Six day event 30 June to 5 July PETROL HEAD EVENT Which coincides with German Grand Prix 27 & 28 July INGLISTON’S OWN HOSTED WEDDING FAYRE 8 September FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Two day event 29 & 30 September
Paul then turned his sights to weddings. People were asking to hire these suites out, so it became obvious that it was a good market to get into. The suites naturally lent themselves to holding functions. The wedding market is now hugely popular, we host over 200 weddings a year. The Connemara and Salerno suites are very different, one is very contemporary and the other one is over two floors and very Art Deco, it’s based on the Savoy Hotel in London. We actually have some pieces from the Savoy in there.
for people to relax in and just 10 minutes from Glasgow Airport, 10 minutes from Paisley and 20 minutes from Loch Lomond. People will come and stay over, even people who live nearby. That’s because they really feel like they’re getting away from it all.
It then made sense to develop it into a hotel? We had thirteen lodges and then the hotel came about seven years ago. It has 30 bedrooms, it’s a boutique hotel designed by the award-winning interior designer John Amabile who also designed one of the wedding suites for us. So the whole package started to build, it became this experience where people can dine, they can stay over, they can have a wedding.
What can people expect when they arrive at Ingliston? The staff always welcome you like a friend. You’ll always be well looked after. One of the phrases that’s stuck with me came from a gentleman from the Scottish Hotel Awards who stayed with us last year. He did a mystery shop then announced himself the following day. He said, “I can see what you’re doing, you’re recruiting the smile and training the skill.” I love that, because that is what we’re doing. If the staff are happy and enjoying their work then they’ll greet people with a nice smile. You’ll always be acknowledged and made to feel welcome, which is really important to us.
You’re in a stunning location, too. Yes, you have hills behind and in front of you, you’ve got the River Clyde. Such beautiful scenery
Ingliston Country Club & Hotel is located at Old Greenock Road, Bishopton, PA7 5PA. 01505 864 333. ingliston.com.
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FEATURES
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PHOTO FINESSE
Johnstone-based photographer Graeme Hewitson recently won the highly prestigious Master Photographer of the Year Award.
What can you tell us about your background? I studied graphic design and photography at college in the early 1990s, but it wasn’t until 2002 when everything changed. I photographed something called the Skyline Collection in Glasgow which sold over 24 million prints. That changed my career from graphic design more towards the photography side. How long have you been running your own business? Monument Photos has been running now for 11 years. Our main areas are wedding photography and portraits. I do still photography, baby portraits, children’s photography and modern portfolios. I also do a lot of work for businesses, but I would say around 70% of my work is portrait work. OPPOSITE PAGE: Ultra marathon runner John Connolly. ABOVE: African themed photoshoot with Emily. BELOW: Graeme Hewitson.
Photography isn’t just a job for you, is it? Many people have photography as a hobby, whereas I’m lucky enough to have it as my full-time job and my hobby. I’ve always got a camera working, so to have that passion while working in the industry is brilliant. You must’ve been delighted to win your recent award? Yes, it’s the biggest award in Scotland. I’ve been partners with the Masters Photographers Association for four years, I qualified with them as a licentiate and then I made it to associate level and eventually a fellowship, which is the highest qualification in professional photography anywhere in the world. The MPA are the top body in photography, so to win the overall prize at the Scottish awards is basically putting you at number one in Scotland. I didn’t expect it at all, when I went to the awards there were so many other photographers who I have so much respect for. When I saw the standard of work on display it was an honour to even be there, never mind to win outright!
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Edinburgh from Calton Hill. Scottish wedding banter. Monotone portrait of baby Jude.
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Green screen fashion portrait of Maisie. Baby Quinn. Creative smoke lit wedding portrait. Netball themed shoot with Olivia. Landscape from Glenelg beach towards Skye.
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Contemporary portrait of groom and groomsmen. Digital art image of Houston United. Sisters.
Graeme can be contacted via info@monumentphotos.co.uk and monumentphotos.co.uk.
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LD R IS C O M E E B E TH WAR WHERE ELCOME IS HE W AND T
OPEN MIC NIGHT First Monday of the month from 7.30pm with Graeme Kerr. FREE drink and pizza for each performer. 53 High Street, Paisley PA1 2AN 0141 887 8299 theweehowff theweehowff
g s v in a r er ye ys 5 dl r 1 ou fo Pr sley i Pa
GIFTING A LITTLE BIT OF LOVE
l. Now 75 Glasgow Road, Paisley PA1 3PE 30B High Street, Paisley PA1 2BZ 0141 889 9920 whitecartcompany.co.uk
shoe52
Spring/summer 2019 range now in stock including these Bugatti sandals.
Girls, boys and ladies shoes and handbags. Professional measure and fitting service. 5 Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1LY Tel: 0141 848 9715 | shoe52.com
find something special 95 Causeyside Street, Paisley PA1 1TU 0141 889 9922
29 Gauze Street, Paisley PA1 1ES 0141 889 0886
ivadgifts
E L E C T R I CA L S E R V I C E S
• Electrical • Alarms • Data/Fibre Networks • LED Lighting • CCTV • Access Control Systems
FOR A COMPETITIVE PRICE CALL 07715 643151 AND QUOTE MILL
Design...Install...Maintain...
FEATURES
SHOPPING
Gifts galore and so much more are available at these fine outlets in Paisley.
Bugatti sandals, £69.99
Socks,£9.99
Teacher bracelet, £15.50; Best teacher pouch, £16.99
Smart book light, from £30
Fitflop sneakers, £80
Wax lantern, from £22
Coasters, £8 each
Lelli Kelly shoes with free gift, £52.99
dm ad e ro ses, £8 each
Metal candle holder, £44
n Ha Angels, from £19.99
Ivad Gifts
Shoe 52
White Cart Company
95 Causeyside Street, Paisley PA1 1TU; 29 Gauze Street, Paisley PA1 1ES, Facebook & Instagram: ivadgifts
5 Mill Street, Paisley PA1 1LY shoe52.com
75 Glasgow Road, Paisley PA1 3PE; 30B High Street, Paisley PA1 2BZ, whitecartcompany.co.uk
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Top for Tots Gemma Scullion of Renfrewshire Tots presents this handy treasure map of fun activities for you and your little ones.
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Brodie and Lochlan, photo by Colin Horn, colinhorn.co.uk
FEATURES
FEATURES RSPB
R
enfrewshire Tots started out as a social media campaign to highlight what was on in Renfrewshire for children under the age of five. Our new website features information on local groups and classes, places to visit, a guide to tot-friendly cafes and restaurants, upcoming events, places to shop and more. Here are some of our favourite places to explore.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS FINLAYSTONE COUNTRY ESTATE, LANGBANK We are incredibly lucky to have this wonderful woodland escape on our doorstep. A perfect place to visit for all ages, it often organises family events. The various play parks will keep tots entertained all day long, and there is something quite enchanting about walking through the forest and discovering a pirate ship. Several of the peaceful walks throughout the estate are pram- friendly, which is perfect if you’re trying to get your tot off to sleep. There are several picnic spots throughout the estate, bbq huts are available to book, and The Garden Café is open on weekends as well as school and bank holidays. Another unexpected find is Dolly Mixture, a museum showcasing over 700 dolls from all around the world. RSPB LOCHWINNOCH This is a great place to explore nature and offers a lovely pramfriendly woodland walk along the side of Castle Semple Loch. There are plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife on your walk and from the birdwatching hides. It also features picnic benches, a small play park and activity areas including a Nest Building Challenge and Fairy Door Trail. BARSHAW PARK Barshaw Park has been popular with families in Renfrewshire for many years. For small tots there is a large enclosed play park with plenty of swings, climbing frames and slides to burn off some of their seemingly endless reserves of energy. The newly
The Big Adventure
built play park is brilliant for bigger tots and older kids. Adult exercise equipment is now available in the park, which is handy for parents or carers with prams, as you can enjoy a workout without having to sort a babysitter or gym membership. For tots learning to ride their bikes or scooters there is a great track area where they can practise their skills, and at weekends during the summer you might get the chance to hop on board the little steam train that sometimes operates in the park. Also, don’t miss the brilliant Barshaw Gala Day on Saturday 22 June.
THE GREAT INDOORS PANDAMONIUM PLAY CENTRE, ERSKINE Pandamonium not only has all the usual things you would expect of soft play, but also includes a gated baby/toddler section, Go Karts, a bouncy castle, trampolines, a sports area, a multi-lane slide and a cafe with plenty of seating. Pandamonium often features visits from favourite children’s characters from the likes of Toy Story, Frozen, Teletubbies, Paw Patrol and many more.
Barshaw Park
THE BIG ADVENTURE, LINWOOD And we do mean BIG! The main play area is five levels tall and features a number of obstacles and slides to keep your tot exploring for hours. There is also a bouncy castle
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FEATURES
located at the back of the building and a separate toddler and baby area with a slide, a ball pool and a mini climbing frame. Midweek during term time from 10am to 2pm there is a huge range of toys available. Babies go free and during the week the Tiny Adventures Offer, which includes entry, juice, biscuit and tea or coffee, runs from 10am to 2pm Renfrewshire Leisure Pools Most tots absolutely love being in water. These pools allow free swimming for parents and carers attending with a one-year-old. Parent and baby/toddler swim classes for ages three months to three years run midweek at On-X in Linwood, Johnstone Hub and Lagoon Leisure Centre in Paisley. The Lagoon and On-X pools include play areas and flumes.
Gravity
The Cocoabean Company
THE GREAT INDOORS SOAR AT INTU BRAEHEAD
GRAVITY One of our favourite activities is the toddler sessions at Gravity Trampolining Park. The whole venue is reserved for tots aged 18 months to five years, so there are no worries of bigger kids bumping into them. The trampolining arena is massive, with two soft play areas and other activities to enjoy. A selection of fancy dress costumes for tots is also provided. ODEON CINEMA No need to miss the latest blockbuster because you can’t get a babysitter! Odeon Newbies, which runs on Tuesdays during term time, host special screenings for parents or carers attending with a baby. Odeon Kids runs weekend mornings, sometimes with discounted tickets. A great way to introduce tots to the cinema experience. THE COCOABEAN COMPANY This sweet activity allows tots to work in a chocolate factory. Workshops are available every day but there are specific Beanie Tots sessions for children under four. They can make and design their own chocolate creations to take home, all for just £6. Two Beanie Tots sessions run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. SNOW FACTOR These fun 30 minute sledging sessions are suitable for tots aged three plus. Afterwards, head upstairs to Bar Varia and get heated up with a cuppa or some food while your tot enjoys their soft play area.
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On-X, @McAteer Photography
The Lagoon, @McAteer Photography
Little Potters at The Little Coffee Company, Paisley This is a great arts and crafts activity. Purchase an item of pottery from the wide range available and staff will help your tot to paint it. The inclusion of jumperoos is great because baby can have fun without you having to hover over them. There is a brilliant set-up with comfy couches within the gated play area, so you can easily keep an eye on your little ones from your table. More details about these activities can be found at facebook.com/ RenfrewshireTots/ and on Twitter at @RenfrewshireTot. You can also find out more about the free-to-join intu family club at intu.co.uk/braehead.
EANWHILE...
COMICS, GAMES, COFFEE & CAKES VISIT PAISLEY’S COMIC AND GAMES CAFE!
45 OLD SNEDDON STREET, PAISLEY PA3 2AN, 0141 237 9180 @COMICRAZYSHOP
@COMICRAZYSHOP
WWW.COMICRAZY.CO.UK
FEATURES
INTERVIEW
Tony
Fitzpatrick The St Mirren legend talks to Paul English about his tumultuous life and extraordinary career.
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FEATURES
W
hen Tony Fitzpatrick stood at the top of the Love Street terracing as a 12-year-old boy, he had a vision. “I knew this is where I wanted to play football,” says the Buddies’ Chief Executive half a century later, having not only played for, but managed, the team of his boyhood dreams. However he’s also had to endure what most would consider the stuff of nightmares: violence in the family home, a father sent to prison, suicidal thoughts as a child, being taken into residential care, enduring the death of a young son, divorce, depression and bankruptcy. Yet to speak to Tony Fitzpatrick today is to speak to a man ever-thankful for life’s blessings. The 63-year-old’s incredible journey is charted in unflinching detail in the pages of a new autobiography, Fitzy: The Story of My Life, written with Norman Macdonald. “He asked me 15 years ago to do it,” Fitzpatrick recalls, “but it wasn’t until I came back to St Mirren that it seemed like the right time. To be honest, I still find it difficult to say why anyone would think I had a particularly interesting life, or a life which is more than just a football story. But Norman seems to think I have.” It’s clear Macdonald was right. Fitzy is a classic tale of triumph over adversity, beginning in the family home on Eagle Street, aka Evil Street, in Glasgow’s Possilpark. “You were either a would-be footballer, a boxer or you were into serious crime,” he explains. “I wanted to be a footballer from an early age. I’m not judging anybody, because if I hadn’t made it in football then I don’t know what path I’d have gone down. Even at that age, you have to learn to survive somehow.” Adversity bred resilience, tenacity and focus, qualities which would go on to define his football career. He turned in 351 appearances for St Mirren, where he was first taken to train as a 12-year-old playing for Possil YM. He won a First Division title in 1976 and was part of the Scottish Cup winning squad of 1987. Fitzpatrick’s memoir scores high on upbeat football anecdotes. There are tales of chasing cars with Saints legend Frank McGarvey, of learning at the knee of Sir Alex Ferguson and proudly turning down his family’s beloved Celtic on three separate occasions. However, at the book’s core are several traumatic stories. In one of its many remarkably candid sequences, Fitzpatrick recalls how he contemplated taking his own life as a child, before coming across a statuette of the Virgin Mary.
“MY FAMILY ARE HUGE CELTIC FANS, AND THEY WERE ALWAYS RAGING WITH ME FOR KNOCKING THEM BACK. BUT I’VE ALWAYS HAD ST MIRREN IN MY HEART”
Even today, he describes his faith as “the most important thing in my life.” Such devotion has been profoundly challenged, though. “There was a time when I went away from my faith and lost all belief, but I believe Our Blessed Mother brought me back in.” He admits he found the experience of sharing every cough and spit of his life for the book a gruelling one. “I was going home shattered sometimes, because it felt like reliving some of it.” His son Tony Jr died from leukaemia in 1983. “You never get over the loss of a child,” he laments. “I still haven’t recovered, but you learn to deal with it. There are things in life you never want to go though, like the loss of a child or the break-up of a marriage. That was one of the hardest things to deal with.” Despite such hardships, or perhaps because of them, Tony has become a motivational figure away from the footballing sphere. He’s delivered talks on positivity, confidence and self-esteem in a range of environments from BAE shipyards to Heathrow Airport. He’s published two children’s books on motivation around the central character of Babakoochi Bear, and worked with disadvantaged young people at Glasgow’s Violence Reduction Unit. He continues to write, despite a diagnosis of dyslexia in his fifties, and talks openly of being helped by those around him when it comes to clerical duties. “That’s been difficult for me at times in my life,” he admits. “It’s still there, but it’s amazing how things have changed in that regard now. If you tell people, they tend to help.” As far as football goes, that 12-year-old on the Love Street terraces was appointed to run the club in 2015. “I’m just delighted to be back here,” he says. “My family are huge Celtic fans, and they were always raging with me for knocking them back. But I’ve always had St Mirren in my heart. I’ve no regrets there.” Fitzy: The Story of My Life by Tony Fitzpatrick and Norman Macdonald is out now, published by Macdonald Media Publishing. macdonald-media.co.uk. Follow Paul on Twitter at @PaulEnglishhack.
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Super skincare
EVEN BETTER BRONZE
FELINE FLICK TRICK
The UK’s best-selling bronzer – Hoola by Benefit – just got better with the introduction of two new shades, the medium deep Caramel and deeply dark Toasted. With no sparkle or shimmer, they deliver a fortnight in Fiji at the sweep of a brush. £26.
Still trying to master a heavy cat’s eye flick? Put down your pencil, move away from the mirror and head to your nearest L’Oreal Paris stand as Flash Cat Eye has arrived. This liquid liner has a removeable stencil built into the lid. We know. Genius, right? £8.99.
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Most Supermodels are happy promoting beauty products, but not Miranda Kerr. The Victoria’s Secret star’s KORA Organic skincare line has won numerous industry awards and is now available in Scotland exclusively at Space NK. Prices start at £21. While there’s no guarantee you’ll look like Miranda, it’s worth a go, isn’t?
BEAUTY
Our make-up maven Susie Cormack Bruce with another scented bag of tips.
TIME FOR TEA? Elizabeth Arden has introduced two companion fragrances to its popular White Tea line, namely Vanilla Orchid and Wild Rose. The former offers a heady, opulent hit of floral warmth, while the Wild Rose is sweet but has a blast of freshness too, making it an intriguing little number. From £36.
FEELING FLUSH The Lanolips Rose Gold Ointment is brilliant for achieving that natural just-leftthe-ski-slopes look, even if the only slope you see is a slippery one after too many proseccos on a Saturday night. £13 and it’s yours.
BEAUTY
DERMAL FILLERS Barry Lemon, principal dentist at Bluewater Dental, gives us the lowdown on fillers.
What are fillers and how do they work? The most common dermal filler is hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance which helps the skin retain moisture, volume and softness. When used correctly, it can soften unwanted facial lines and restore volume where it has been lost.
What are the results? Results tend to be fairly instant with lines becoming noticeably lessened and the skin appearing fuller. This will continue to improve after two to three weeks as the filler takes up moisture and settles in. Patients can expect the results to last for anywhere up to a year.
What does the treatment involve? Treatment takes about 30 minutes and involves a series of small injections to introduce the filler below the skin. This can be a little uncomfortable but shouldn't be overly painful.
What should you ask your consultant before considering a treatment? You should ask what sort of filler they are using and the potential risks involved. Most fillers when placed correctly will give a fantastic result, however it is important to be aware of potential side effects before committing to treatment.
Who would suit this treatment? Only the patient can really decide. Your clinician should spend time to consult with you before any treatment is carried out and can help you work out whether or not fillers are for you. Who should avoid this treatment? Certain dermal fillers contain a local anaesthetic which some people can be allergic to. It is important that your clinician records a medical history for you to identify any potential reasons to avoid treatment.
How much do fillers cost? Clinics tend to differ slightly in how they price dermal fillers but as a general guide you can expect prices to start at around ÂŁ250 for minor treatments. Your clinician should discuss cost with you at your initial consultation. To book a free consultation, call Bluewater Dental on 01505 843105 or email info@bluewaterdentist.co.uk. 69 High Street, Lochwinnoch, bluewaterdentist.co.uk.
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BEAUTY
BEAUTY
expert Paisley’s very own Nicola Keegan is an award-winning, HND-qualified mobile makeup artist with a Diploma in Eyebrow Definition & LVL lash-lift. She offers an elite hair and make-up service. How did you get started? Nine years ago, when I was 26, I decided it was time to finally go to college and gain my HND qualification in makeup artistry. I completely surrounded myself with all things makeup, beauty and fashion related.Within two months of starting college I had my own bridal makeup artistry business. What’s the best thing about working in the industry? The best thing for me is being able to make someone feel better about themselves in an instant, whether it be one of my before-and-after makeup transformations or finding the exact correct skincare regime for women who have been searching for years. What’s your favourite cosmetics brand? If you push me to pick, it has to be Urban Decay. My favourite product is my Nars liquid highlighter in Copacabana. I like to mix it with my foundation for a dewy finish. I also put a layer on over my primer and hit the cheekbones and tear ducts with it for a super-healthy lit-from-within glow. What beauty trends are you enjoying right now? I am obsessed with rose gold eyes at the moment. It’s also my most requested makeup to do on clients. It suits most eye colours and shapes and makes a welcome break from nudes and champagne colours. What should people look for when booking a makeup artist? Check they are insured and the cancellation policy. Enquire about what products they use and research their previous makeup experience as well as some makeup looks they’ve done on clients. What’s your top tip for achieving a professional look at home? Always use a primer.Whether it be eye primer or face primer, make sure you invest in a good product. Find out more about Nicola at nikmakeupartist.com.
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ACID
TEST T
he use of acids is nothing new in the world of beauty, with everything from at-home peels to cleansers all benefiting from their inclusion. But do you know if you’re using the right acid for your skin concern? Here’s the skinny on some of the most common acids you’re likely to come across. NB: If you have any doubts or suffer from a serious skin condition, consult with a doctor first before trying.
HYALURONIC ACID
A naturally occurring acid which can retain 1,000 times its weight in water within skin cells, making it brilliant for dry, ageing or seriously hungover skins.
GLYCOLIC ACID
This is part of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family and an excellent chemical exfoliant which safely removes dead cells from the skin. It can also help with the appearance of lines and age spots.
LACTIC ACID
Another AHA, this comes from fermented milk and exfoliates to improve the skin’s overall texture and helps to promote collagen growth. It can also be helpful in healing acne scars.
SALICYLIC ACID
A Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), this can penetrate the pores and exfoliate from within the skin. It’s one of the most popular acids for fighting acne and has anti-inflammatory properties too.
RETINOIC ACID
The big daddy of all acids, retinoic acid is the industry name for Vitamin A and its can-do properties mean it’s a brilliant multitasker. Minimising lines, slowing collagen decline, improving skin ‘bounce’, reversing sun damage, this bad boy does it all. As such, it must be treated with respect and definitely shouldn’t be used in the sun.
MONDAY ERSKINE Salvation Army Hall 9.30 & 11.30am, 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Heather 07828 051860 ELDERSLIE East Gate Church 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Carolyn 07740 067869 GLENBURN Gleniffer Hotel 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Leanne 07535 648028 PAISLEY Sherwood Church 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Laura 07921 395659 TUESDAY HOUSTON Compass Centre 9.30 & 11.30am Call Liz 07748 104366 LINWOOD St Convals Church Hall 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Louise 07900 665196
PAISLEY St Luke’s Church 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Laura 07921 395659 GLENBURN St Peter’s Men’s Club 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Tracey 07443 644761 JOHNSTONE The Hazel Arms 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Stephanie 07749 966001 WEDNESDAY BISHOPTON Bishopton Community Centre 7.30 & 9.30am Call Heather 07828 051860 FOXBAR St Columba Church Hall 8am & 10am Call Grace 07928 531481 JOHNSTONE Masonic Hall 9am & 11am Call Janice 07469 925280
PAISLEY Wallneuk North Church Hall 9.30am, 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Sarah 07834517569
LOCHWINNOCH Lochwinnoch Golf Club 7.30pm Call Michelle 07782 324114
NEW VENUE JOHNSTONE Lynnhurst Hotel 5pm & 7pm Call Carolyn 07740 067869
THURSDAY PAISLEY Stow Brae Church Halls 9.30 & 11.30am, 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Lynn 07774 077103
FOXBAR St Columba Church 5pm & 7pm Call Jen 07887 981262
LINWOOD Linwoood Parish Church 9.30am Call Janice 07469 925280
LINWOOD St Convals Church Hall 5.30 & 7.30 pm Stephanie 07749 966001 HOUSTON Compass Centre Wednesday 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Liz 07748 104366 RALSTON Ralston Bowling Club 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Elaine 07846 282105
slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000
NEW CONSULTANT RENFREW Renfrew Town Hall 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Liz 07980 075276 PAISLEY Mossvale Church 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Lynsey 07932 580297
NEW TIMES GALLOWHILL Sandyford Church 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Julie 07940 470073 HILLINGTON St. Andrew Church 5.30 & 7.30pm Call Jacqueline 07871 044418 FRIDAY PAISLEY Stow Brae Church Halls 8am, 10am & 12 noon Call Lynn 07774 077103 ELDERSLIE 9.30am East Gate Church Call Grace 07928 531481 SATURDAY PAISLEY Stow Brae Church Halls 8am & 10am Call Lynn 07774 077103 JOHNSTONE Masonic Hall 9.30 & 11.30am Call Jen 07887 981262
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The Paisley Community Website
FEATURES
PILLOW TALK
Morrison’s Bed Centre has been providing the people of Paisley and beyond with a good night’s sleep for over 50 years. Manager Roddy Morrison tells us more about the business.
W
e’re a family business, it’s myself, my wife and my two daughters. We’ve been here in Lawn Street for seven years, but we were in George Street for 48 years before that. We’re very lucky to have such a loyal clientele; we’ve got three generations who still come to us. There are people coming back for their third, fourth or fifth bed over their lifetimes. We’ve got a really good range of middle market products, really affordable value for money. That’s what we’ve been pushing for all these years, good quality at reasonable prices. We do package deals whereby you get your headboard, your mattress and your base at a very competitive price as a whole unit as opposed to buying all the items separately. We do them from as little as £399, but we specialise in pocket-sprung sets from on average £599 right up to £1,500 or so. That’s a very popular service we provide. When you compare prices with some of our bigger competitors, you would imagine because of their scale they’re going to be a lot less expensive, but in reality
our customers tell us that we are very reasonable in comparison. I don’t actually go spying myself, but that word of mouth speaks for itself! When coming in to buy a bed you should hopefully already know how firm or soft you want your mattress to be. There are so many different types of bed now; you get your traditional spring type, you’ve got your pocket-sprung, you have beds with gel to keep you lovely and cool, there’s memory foam too of course. The bed that will suit you is the one you find most comfortable and that’s not necessarily the most expensive one. You spend a third of your life in bed. Most of the beds now come with a five-year warranty. We also have some with a ten year warranty. If a company is providing that kind of warranty they’re obviously confident that their product is going to last.
Morrison’s Bed Centre is located at 24 Lawn Street, Paisley, PA1 1HF. 0141 889 8388. morrisonsbedcentre.co.uk.
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FEATURES
Neon snake print suit, ÂŁ45, Lixie. Photo by Jem Craig.
Summer
NIGHTS Our latest curated fashion shoot is a collaboration between local independent retailers and HND photography students from West College Scotland.
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FASHION
Jenna shirt, £26, Lixie. Necklace, £14.99, Ivad Gifts. Photo by Stacey Jones.
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FASHION
Special sequin T-shirt, £36, Lixie. Photo by Stacey Jones.
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FEATURES
Snake print shirt, £24, Lixie. Necklace, £29.99, Ivad Gifts. Photo by Jem Craig.
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FEATURES
Oversized T-shirt, £20, Lixie. Photo by Emily Worms.
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Photographers: Levi Black, Jem Craig, Stacey Jones and Emily Worms. Photographer’s Assistant: Linda Millar. Make-up: Emma Christie. Model: Georgia at All Talent Agency. Locations: West College Scotland, Paisley Campus, The Bull Inn and Gantry Paisley. Huge thanks to Scott Cadenhead, Robert Tabor and all the students involved in this project for making this possible. And the kind people at The Bull Inn and Gantry Paisley.
FASHION
RiRi dress, £34, Lixie. Necklace, £39.95, Ivad Gifts. Photo by Levi Black.
WHERE TO BUY
LIXIE 14 New St, Paisley PA1 1XY, 0141 840 2173, lixie.co.uk
IVAD GIFTS 95 Causeyside Street, Paisley PA1 1TU, 0141 889 9922 and 29 Gauze Street, Paisley PA1 1ES, 0141 889 0886, Facebook & Insta: ivadgifts
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FURNISHING SCHOOL Kirsten Read from Epitome Soft Furnishings in Paisley presents a bespoke guide to home interior styling.
T
ake a look around you. The cushion you are sitting on, the blinds or curtains on your windows, the throw over your bed or the upholstered stool under the dressing table, these are all soft furnishings and they are integral to the decor of your home. Fabrics and textiles add soul and warmth to your home. They are such an important factor in adding contrast and character to any room; whether it be cushions, window dressings or the sofa you sit on, the colours, textures and patterns in your soft furnishings will add dimension and depth to your decor. The concept of dressing your home in this way is sometimes deemed old-fashioned by a generation who fear the curse of the interior trend of the 1980s: swags and tails! Fear not, however, as soft furnishings have come a long way and there
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is inspiration in abundance to help you dress your home according to your taste and style. Our homes have longevity, so it’s important we get our investment right when dressing them. Soft furnishings, if chosen correctly, should and can work with your room for decades. David Sloan, Director of Epitome Soft Furnishings, says, “I work with a lot of clients who have lived with the same curtains or blinds for 20 to 30 years. This is why I am so passionate about bespoke soft furnishings. Get it right and the investment lives on and on!” The fabrics you choose say a lot about your style so it’s important to consider how you envision the tone of your room. How do you make the right choice? Here are some factors to consider when dressing your home.
Furniture Village
INTERIORS
Bespoke soft furnishings
Michael Murphy
Houseology
COLOUR Using colours that are similar, rather than identical, in tone helps tie your whole scheme together. It creates interest and avoids looking flat. Using the same colour in varying tones creates a calm and serene balance and avoids a room becoming too busy. Using contrasting jewel tones packs a dramatic punch and a sense of luxury to a room. TEXTURE Texture is an important design element that adds depth, warmth and balance to a space. Try to select a combination of two or three textures that can be layered together on a sofa or bed. Layer samples alongside each other to see how the textures work together. Cut velvets add a touch of elegance, whereas metallic textures exude glamour. PATTERN Adding pattern can stop a space from feeling lacklustre and helps to bring colour, texture and form together seamlessly. Too much pattern can be overwhelming, so opt for one that has several colours you can pull accents from to use in accessories around the room. When mixing patterns, try to mix a stripe and a floral, for instance, rather than two different florals together or two different stripes together. When you apply these three elements and layer them together it can create a sense of luxury and cosiness. Create contrast with pillows and throws and play about with varying sizes of cushions and accessories until you achieve the balance and look you want. Invest in quality, well-made items and you will see the return for years to come. Most importantly, have fun with it and let your personality shine through! Epitome Soft Furnishings is located at Abbey Mill Business Centre, Studio 6, Sir James Clark Building, Paisley, PA1 1JT. 0141 459 0727. epitomesoftfurnishings.co.uk.
Free home visit and measure • Made to Measure Curtains • Roman Blinds & Pelmets • Wallpapers • Cushions and Re-Upholstery Work • Interior Design and Styling Package
Soft Furnishings Studio 6, Sir James Clark Building, Paisley, PA1 1JT 0141 459 0727 sales@epitomesoftfurnishings.co.uk epitomesoftfurnishings.co.uk
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dreaming of summer in a
new home? now’s the time to sell!
making
a splash
call us today to book a FREE valuation 16 Causeyside Street, Paisley, PA1 1UN T 0141 889 7222 E paisley@allenandharris.co.uk
room for guests...
Neva Place Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3PN T 0150 561 2114 E bridgeofweir@allenandharris.co.uk
allenandharris.co.uk Trading name of Sequence (UK) Limited.
...
PROPERTY
PROPERTY OAKSHAW GARDENS
Allen & Harris have brought an exciting and exclusive new development in West Brae to the market.
MARKET WATCH “There is still momentum in the market,” says Natalie Fotheringham, Branch Manager at Paisley estate agents Allen & Harris.
Oakshaw Gardens comprises four four-bedroom family homes, now ready to reserve. They boast spacious, versatile living space, double bedrooms – masters with en suites – stylish kitchen/diners and a garden and garage. Located in the heart of Paisley, the modern Oakshaw Gardens development is close to the Coats Observatory, the John Neil Institution and Gilmour Street train station with its direct service into Glasgow city centre and other reliable transport links in every direction. The bustling historic town of Paisley offers an array of amenities locally – restaurants, shops, bars, cafes – and Glasgow International Airport is within easy reach for exploring further afield. Prices start from just £235,000. For further information and to be first to reserve one of these new homes, please contact the branch.
In light of the ongoing political uncertainties at present, I’m often asked, “Is it a good time to sell?” My advice would be not to delay putting your property on the market. The housing market in and around Paisley remains healthy, with well-presented and sensibly priced homes continuing to sell well and with multiple buyers encouraging closing dates. We are also now in spring, which is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year for house hunting. It’s when buyer appetite increases, and that’s something sellers would be wise to make the most of! It’s important that sellers seek out advice from local, reputable and knowledgeable estate agents backed up by solid evidence to justify prices. If they do this they will certainly reap the rewards of an active market. This is where Allen & Harris can help. My dedicated and enthusiastic team have a great database of buyers and can offer a comprehensive range of professional home moving services — sales, mortgage services, conveyancing — to manage the property chain and achieve the best results for our customers. Our unique ‘Help to Find’ service also supports customers in finding the home of their dreams for their onward purchase. If you are looking to move home, there’s no reason to delay. Please get in touch with us now for a free valuation on your property and to see how we can help with all your house moving needs. Allen & Harris, 16 Causeyside Street, Paisley, PA1 1UN. 0141 889 7222. paisley@allenandharris.co.uk.
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Formakin House, photo by Brian Moyes, clydesideimages.co.uk
A Love Letter to
BISHOPTON
Writer Kirsteen Paterson is your field guide to a little village with lots to offer.
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ccessible, friendly and safe, it’s not hard to see why more and more people are choosing to live in Bishopton. That’s thanks in no small part to the Dargavel Village development, which is still under construction and promises to bring new amenities, including a school and supermarket, to this Renfrewshire community. But there’s no need to wait for future facilities, there’s already plenty to do in and around the village, which can trace its history back to Roman times. BISHOPTON TENNIS CLUB Dating back to the 1920s, this family-friendly club has been part of the fabric of the village for almost 100 years. The best way to find it for the uninitiated can be to listen out for the action taking place on its three all-weather courts. The club caters for even pre-school children, and if Dunblane can deliver two Wimbledon champions in the form of Andy and Jamie Murray, maybe Bishopton will be the training ground for Scotland’s next tennis aces. Poplar Avenue, PA7 5AD. 07790 782 645. bishoptontennisclub.co.uk.
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INGLISTON COUNTRY CLUB & HOTEL This family-owned destination offers dining with a difference in its Palomino’s restaurant, where you can tuck into Italian and Scottish cuisine while watching the canters and capers in its equestrian facilities. Competitions here draw a sizeable crowd, as do regular weddings in its stylish function rooms – I often visit with the kids for lunch at weekends, and I’m struggling to remember a recent trip which didn’t include the sights and sounds of skirling pipes and sparkling gowns. No visit is complete without a stroll into the stables and a wheech round the swing park. You can pick up a copy of Mill there too. Old Greenock Road, PA7 5PA. 01505 864 333. ingliston.com. MAR HALL This A-list celebrity haunt has welcomed the likes of Kylie, Ricky Gervais and Martin Compston, who got married there. Dating back to 1828, the five-star hotel and spa is certainly impressive, but it’s the extensive grounds that my family loves. The 240-acre estate includes peaceful woodlands that are
FEATURES
Ingliston Country Club & Hotel
May’s Coffee Shop
Angelinis
popular with dog walkers, ramblers and off-road cyclists, but are never overcrowded. Pull on some wellies or sturdy trainers and make your way through the gorgeous green space to the edge of the River Clyde, where hardy souls can whip them off and splatter across the mud flats. On the way you’ve a chance to spot some of the stars of the animal world, such as rabbit, deer and woodpeckers. Mar Hall Avenue, PA7 5NW. 0141 812 9999. marhall.com. MAY’S COFFEE SHOP/ANGELINI’S PIZZERIA & CAFE It’s crazy to think that before this friendly café opened, Bishopton was without a coffee shop. May’s opened in 2017, serving up a much needed meeting place along with its sandwiches, cakes and lattes. It’s open from breakfast ‘til late afternoon and it’s hard to pop in without meeting someone you know: the essence of village life. Across the road lies another new addition, Angelini’s Pizzeria & Cafe, which offers fresh calzones, masses of pasta choices and, arguably most importantly, Italian desserts. Try the tiramisu or panacotta while the kids dine out on ice cream and chocolate kebabs – always a winner. Home delivery is available for those joggers-
Mar Hall
on-the-sofa nights. Handy, as is the fact Mill is available in both eateries. May’s Coffee Shop, 19 Greenock Road, PA7 5JW. 01505 863 777. mayscoffeeshop.co.uk. Angelini’s Pizzeria & Cafe, 76 Greenock Road, PA7 5JB. 01505 851 500. angelinis.co.uk. FORMAKIN HOUSE Tucked into the tree-lined rural roads on the outskirts of Bishopton, this historic site truly deserves its status as a local landmark. It’s known to most as the Monkey House for obvious reasons – the simian statues on the roof. This playful touch speaks volumes about John Augustus Holms, the businessman behind its creation. While the gatehouses and other buildings are created in the style of the 17th century, they only date back to the early 1900s. That doesn’t matter, they’re wonderful. The estate was in public hands for a time in the 80s – hands up anyone who remembers skiting down the zip line – but is now made up of a clutch of private residences. Tours are offered during annual Doors Open Days. Houston Road, PA7 5NX. Follow Kirsteen on Twitter via @Kapaterson.
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Un�hanks �he
The Unthanks are folk troubadours in the classic tradition. We spoke to Rachel about keeping the flame alive.
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MUSIC
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ince releasing their first album in 2005, Tyneside siblings Becky and Rachel Unthank have accumulated a barrage of awards and critical acclaim. Their restless musical journey has involved collaborations with Sting, Paul Hartnoll from Orbital, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band. They’ve also interpreted songs by writers as diverse as Rudyard Kipling, Robert Wyatt, Anohni and Molly Drake, mother of the late Nick. Since 2009 they’ve expanded their sound with a full band. The constant beating heart of these wide-ranging escapades are Becky and Rachel’s terribly sad, utterly gorgeous vocals and their commitment to preserving real-life tales. You’ve performed in large venues all over the world, but your current tour involves a visit to Paisley Arts Centre. What brought you there? We’re always keen to go to places we haven’t been to before. On this tour it’s just the three of us, me, Becky and Niopha [Keegan] singing unaccompanied, so that allows us to go to some smaller venues. It’s easier to travel, although saying that the girls are now bringing babies along! You enjoy stretching yourselves? We just love music and we’re always looking for different ways of telling stories through music. When we started it was just me and Becky singing unaccompanied. We’ve always thought we should do that again as a project, and it felt like the right time to do it now. You never know what’s going to come up, we really thrive on having new experiences. Your latest release is a trilogy of albums titled Lines (Parts One, Two & Three). What can you tell us about that? The first one is the First World War project we did in 2014, part of which was using lots of poetry, especially women poets. We put tunes to those words. The second was when we worked with Maxine Peake on a play she wrote called The Last Testament of Lillian Bilocca. That was about Lillian and the women who campaigned and successfully changed the law for safety at sea after the 1968 Hull Triple Trawler Disaster. We got to write the tunes and actually be
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WITH SIBLINGS YOU DON’T NEED TIME TO GET INTO A COMFORTABLE ZONE, YOU’RE ALREADY THERE
Q&A FAVOURITE ALBUM? Illinois by Sufjan Stevens FAVOURITE SONG? Easy Run by Richmond Fontaine FAVOURITE ARTIST? Sufjan Stevens FAVOURITE BOOK? Lean on Pete by Willy Vlautin FAVOURITE FILM? The Commitments
in the play as well, which was a dream come true because we had to wear ‘60s hair and get-up. What does the third part of the trilogy involve? The Bronte Society wanted to mark Emily Bronte’s 200th birthday, so they commissioned us to look at her poems and write songs. We got to actually go to the Bronte’s parsonage home and record there. Adrian our piano player, who composed the tunes, actually composed them on Emily’s piano, so that was quite exciting for him. We had to go there when the museum was shut at night, which was very atmospheric, there’s a great big churchyard outside. Storytelling is a huge part of the folk tradition, isn’t it? We think of ourselves as storytellers. We were brought up in the folk scene and went to lots of folk clubs and festivals, so we were lucky enough to hear all these sing-arounds where adults told each other stories in the form of song. I think that magical world always captured me and Becky and that’s what motivates us to sing, to tell those stories and pass them on. When harmonising, do you think siblings have a unique advantage over singers who aren’t related? It’s all about time spent together. You develop something instinctive which isn’t a magical thing, it’s just that you can anticipate feelings, thoughts and musical movements. It feels comfortable to try out things. Obviously, there must also be something in your voices coming from the same DNA, you can’t replicate that. With siblings you don’t need time to get into a comfortable zone, you’re already there. What do you remember of your time studying at Glasgow University? Quite a lot of beer passed my lips! I’m extremely fond of Glasgow, I absolutely loved living there. When you’re that age it’s a seminal experience, it really imprints upon you. In a way I’m always trying to get back to Glasgow. I’ve never been to Paisley, but you never know. I may have ended up at a party there, but I think I’d remember that! The Unthanks perform at a sold out Paisley Arts Centre on 10th May. Keep tabs on the band via the-unthanks.com.
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MUSIC
It’s Paul Whitelaw and his guide to some of the best gigs taking place near you in May and June.
SPIRITUALIZED
OH SEES These San Franciscan knights are constantly mutating. They’re essentially a psychedelic garage rock band, but they also encompass elements of art rock, noise rock, prog and hardcore punk. It all fits together like a wonderfully eccentric mosaic. They’re also known for their wild prolificacy, having released a whopping 21 albums in the last sixteen years. Oh Sees make most other bands looks like lazy dilettantes. QMU, Glasgow, 19 May
The stars may align when urban spaceman Jason Pierce brings his travelling cosmic gospel show to this charming amphitheatre. You could argue that Pierce has been obsessively slaving over the same sonic template for the last 20 odd years, but whenever his symphonic space rock formula clicks into place the effect can be transcendent. Don’t expect a trace of banter from ol’ laughing chops, just close your eyes and lift off. Kelvingrove Bandstand, Glasgow, 23 May
THE RUTLES Neil Innes is one of comedy and pop’s great unsung heroes. A former member of the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, he worked with Monty Python and wrote a sparkling string of Beatles parodies for the Rutles project he co-devised with Eric Idle. They’re beautifully crafted songs in their own right. He’ll be dusting down prefab four classics such as Cheese and Onion alongside the only other surviving Rutle, John Halsey. Mono, Glasgow, 25 May
THE JULIANA HATFIELD THREE American musician Juliana Hatfield became something of an unwitting poster girl for slacker pop-rock in the post-grunge ‘90s. Fortunately, she managed to escape from that pigeonhole simply by continuing to release a series of good records which refused to tie her down to a particular time and place. A founding member of college rockers the Blake Babies and a former associate of the Lemonheads, she’s an underrated talent. CCA, Glasgow, 24 May
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MUSIC
COMING
UP
FIRST AID KIT Swedish sisters Klara and Johanna Soderberg raised themselves on a diet of Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris and all the other major country/folk rock lynchpins. That much is obvious, as their music wouldn’t have sounded out of place on American FM radio in 1974. What stops them from coming across as mere retro pastiche merchants is the strength of their song-writing and those honey-roasted sibling harmonies. Simply irresistible. SWG3, Glasgow, 31 May
Sobriety are an intense post-post-punk band from Paisley. We spoke to their frontman Ben McGirr. When did the band form? In 2017. Jonjoe who plays bass is my little brother, I went to school with Dan the guitarist and I used to be in another band with Sean the drummer. That dissolved and formed from the ashes was Sobriety. Why Sobriety? The bands I was in before had alcoholthemed names, so I realised intuitively that it’s a negation of that. But not intentionally. What’s been the biggest highlight of your story so far? One of our best gigs was playing in a friend’s living room. There’s a multi-venue music festival in Glasgow called Tenement Trail which no one booked us for, so we thought we’d do our own gig in a flat. We set up a PA and played at three in the morning. Fortunately the neighbours didn’t complain. I was more concerned about them than the police, to be honest. You cite Interpol and The National as influences, there’s also a strong echo of Ian Curtis in your vocals. I like Joy Division a lot. I’m not much of a singer, so it’s just more trying to push my voice down to the point where it sounds in tune. You released your debut single, Ronnie’s Song, last year. When can we expect to hear new material? We’ve just finished recording the next single, Father’s Blood, which is coming out as a split with a band from Edinburgh called Book Club. That’ll be out at the end of May or the start of June. Keep up to speed with Sobriety at facebook.com/ sobrietyband.glasgow/ and goodcareful.net.
FOALS This indie disco party band are renowned as one of the best young live acts in the country. Frontman Yannis Philippakis is never happier than when he’s scrambling over the upholstery and diving into the crowd like a floppy-fringed Iggy Pop. The music? Well, if you gather together some white musicians from Oxford who like minimalist techno and Talking Heads, this is the inevitable outcome. Good, clean, hyperactive fun. SWG3, Glasgow, 18 June
STEREOLAB Back after a ten year hiatus to promote the expanded, remastered reissues of some of their key albums, these Moog-driven art poppers are one of the most beloved and innovative cult bands of the last 30 years. Few artists can honestly claim to have a sound all of their own, but Stereolab are a unique fusion of deadpan harmony, melodic lounge and hypnotic motorik. Long may they groove. SWG3, Glasgow, 22 June
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MUSIC
FOR THE RECORD BBC DJ Vic Galloway tells us what he’s currently listening to.
Health by C Duncan Doko Mien by Ibibio Sound Machine From London via Nigeria, Ibibio Sound Machine are a force of nature and truly explosive onstage, as anyone who has seen them will attest. On record their sound is slightly more contained, but nonetheless a frothing party-blend of Afrobeat, funk, disco and electro. Lead singer Eno is a soulful, technicolour Goddess who leads us in a dance through songs in both English and the Ibibio language. The resulting mash-up is forward-thinking and futuristic, whilst being somewhat familiar and fun. This, their third album so far, might be the deepest and most diverse distillation of their sound yet.
Stillhound by Stillhound Stillhound are an Edinburgh trio who have been quietly beavering away in their own Leith studio to finesse their idiosyncratic sound. They are carving out something all of their own and I have unwittingly christened them ‘Melancholy-tronica™’ on account of their yearning, tearful vocal melodies, introspective lyrics, spiralling guitar lines and cascading layers of electronic bliss. To my ears they could and should bridge the gap between a hipster and mainstream audience with this collection, their second album on their own label following the equally satisfying Bury Everything in 2016. Heartbreak and self-doubt never sounded so beautiful.
Listen to Vic on BBC Radio Scotland every Monday night at 9pm and every Wednesday at 11pm. His highly acclaimed book, Rip It Up: The Story of Scottish Pop, is available now. bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0074hgc.
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The politest man in pop, Glasgow’s C Duncan has crafted perhaps his finest and most focused work yet on his third album. Working closely with Craig Potter from Elbow as a producer in a ‘proper’ studio for the first time, the results are sleek, slick and silky. Previously, his homemade DIY recordings were charming and tasteful, but the new album reaches way beyond. His already pitch-perfect harmonies and arrangements are given the necessary sheen, allowing the jazz-tinged chords and melody-drenched hooks space to further entice the listener. Almost every cerebral pop nugget could be a single here, and in an alternative universe they’re all at #1.
August 2019 Applications
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ENTERTAINMENT
Our editor Paul Whitelaw wades into the best new television, film, DVD and book releases.
TELEVISION GOOD OMENS
FILM TOY STORY 4 Tom Hanks and Tim Allen reprise their roles as Woody and Buzz Lightyear in the latest instalment of this beloved animated saga. When Bonnie introduces the boys to her new toy, a plastic fork she modified as part of a school project, they try to teach him that he’s more than the piece of trash he believes himself to be. An eventful road trip ensues, during which Woody is reunited with a figure from his past. Hanks and Allen have stated that recording certain scenes was an emotional experience, so expect more lump-in-throat moments amid the fun. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, released 21 June
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©BBC & Amazon
FILM ROCKETMAN Not to be outdone by his old friend Freddie Mercury, Sir Elton John receives the major biopic treatment in this potentially entertaining and poignant account of his rise to superstardom while struggling with various personal demons. Leading man Taron Egerton has described it as more of a fantasy musical as opposed to a straightforward biopic, which sounds quite refreshing. It’s directed by Dexter Fletcher, who replaced Bryan Singer during the troubled production of Bohemian Rhapsody. If you’ve seen his delightful Proclaimers smash, Sunshine on Leith, you’ll know he has a knack for sculpting crowd-pleasing musicals with a serious emotional undertow. Paramount Pictures, released 24 May
©Paramount Pictures
©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Based on the comic fantasy novel by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman, this six-part series stars David Tennant and Michael Sheen as a demon and an angel whose comfortable lives on Earth are rudely interrupted when the antichrist threatens to trigger the final battle between Heaven and Hell. A co-production between the BBC and Amazon Prime, it’s directed by Douglas Mackinnon (Doctor Who; Sherlock) and heaves at the seams with a stellar supporting cast including Jon Hamm, Derek Jacobi, the League of Gentlemen, Anna Maxwell Martin and Miranda Richardson, plus the voices of Benedict Cumberbatch and Frances McDormand. Beat that! BBC/Amazon Prime, 31 May
ENTERTAINMENT
DVD THIS TIME WITH ALAN PARTRIDGE
BOOKS THE STALKER
©BBC
By Alex Gray, from £9.99, available now from Amazon, Audible and all good bookshops.
Alan’s return to the BBC after 24 years in the regional radio wilderness was an absolute triumph, albeit only in the sense that it was a hit in the real world. Within its fictional universe, Alan co-hosted this One Show-style weekday magazine programme with his usual narcissism, inanity and ineptitude. Steve Coogan’s impeccable performance as Alan, one of the greatest characters in the annals of comedy, is so deeply textured he feels like a living, breathing person. Packed with gags both broad and subtle, This Time is yet another hilarious addition to the impressively durable Alan canon. BBC, available now
DVD THE BLOOD ON SATAN'S CLAW Along with The Witchfinder General and The Wicker Man, this classic British horror film from 1971 is a seminal entry in the ‘folk horror’ subgenre. Set in an early 17th century English village, it’s a richly atmospheric chiller about demonic possession. Available on Blu-ray for the first time, this limited collector’s edition boasts a remastered print and a generous host of new bonus features. The League of Gentlemen are huge fans, of course, it’s one of their key influences, hence why Mark Gattis, Reece Shearsmith and Jeremy Dyson crop up to provide an excellent commentary track. Screenbound Pictures Ltd, 27 May
Bestselling crime author Alex Gray has written 16 novels starring the indefatigable DCI Lorimer. The Bishopton-based yarn-spinner tells us where he came from.
I
like him, but maybe there’s something deep down in me that wants to keep testing him. I’ve thrown some terrible things at the poor man. He started off as a very sketchy figure. The very first sentence in chapter one of the first book is: “The tall man in the raincoat.” That’s practically all I saw of him, but some of the inspiration for his character as he developed came from the first senior police officer who helped me, Detective Chief Inspector Ronnie Beattie. At that time he was a DCI at the divisional headquarters in Mill Street in Paisley. Ronnie was very good to me, he kept in touch all through the different stages of his career. He was an amazing man, tall, dark, handsome, happily married. Now who does that remind you of? I must say, the other senior detectives I’ve met have all been normal people, not dysfunctional detectives. Ronnie very sadly died aged 53, he’d only retired about two or three years before. It was absolutely tragic. I’m eternally grateful to Ronnie and the officers at the divisional headquarters. I’ve also had an enormous amount of help from Police Scotland. It’s a symbiotic relationship because what I do is portray the police in the way I see them, which is accurate and detailed, so they don’t mind helping me. The people who read my books are getting an authentic portrayal, although fortunately there aren’t as many serial killers in real life!
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Tapas is all the rage at Taste Buds in Paisley, as local artist and writer Rebecca Johnstone finds out.
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s most people know, ‘tapas’ is the name given to multiple bar-side light-bites that come hot or cold, originating in Spain. Loaded with flavour and freshly prepared, these tasty snacks are designed to quell hunger post-siesta, seeing you through until the evening. Tapas (also called ‘pinchos’ after the sticks used to hold them together) offer the perfect sharing plates for couples and friends alike, and in modern casual dining have become the main event in
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themselves. This is precisely the case at Taste Buds in Paisley. Their Tapas Supper Club runs every six weeks, offering seasonal fare to a set menu of eight courses. Yes, that’s eight courses. Everyone eats the same - any food intolerances can be catered for but should be mentioned at the time of booking – so there’s no panic about plate envy or agonising over choices, just the delicious suspense of waiting to see what’s winging its way from the kitchen. My husband and I recently found ourselves tucked into one of their cosy booths, devouring the olives (marinated in vermouth) alongside handfuls of seasoned fried potato skins. A delicious eco appetiser, because at Taste Buds
nothing is wasted. A great ethos, and we were reassured by Elaine, one of the three amigas who run the café (alongside Tracey and Susie), that the olives and skins were definitely not the first course. My husband was delighted to hear this, and as I took my first sip of a particularly juicy Argentinean red our appetites were primed for the delights ahead. First up, crostini with beetroot and balsamic vinegar delivered on an elegant slate platter alongside melba toast with butternut squash and Parma ham. I would struggle to name my favourite, but Elaine barely had time to turn her back before we’d devoured the lot. Next came generous chicken fritters served with black pudding balls on a bed of
Photo by Brian McGuire, paisley.org.uk
¡Me gusta mucho las tapas!
FEATURES
Rebecca Johnstone
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TAPAS SUPPER CLUB DATES 22 Jun, 3 Aug, 5 Oct, 16 Nov, 14 Dec
THEIR TAPAS SUPPER CLUB RUNS EVERY SIX WEEKS, OFFERING SEASONAL FARE TO A SET MENU OF EIGHT COURSES
homemade apple chutney. I would never have considered this combination of flavours, but the sweetness of the apple worked so well with the black pudding which was truly melt-in-the-mouth. Slices of vegetable frittata served with oh-so-tender Spanish meatballs on a bed of rice came next, and we were already losing count of which course we were on. It’s that kind of experience where the dishes meld into each other, the atmosphere light and convivial. I even overheard a fellow diner comment that the food was very authentic – she would know, having lived in Spain for six years. The next plate offered pickled vegetables (onions, cauliflower, carrots) with a selection of cured meats, Manchego and blue cheese. I’m not normally a fan of blue cheese, but on this platter in a small bite-sized piece, it worked.
I think our favourite course of the evening was the 14-hour slow-cooked beef on a bed of chive, basil and pomegranate cous-cous with patatas bravas and fried peppers. Classic Spanish choices with a twist, and every tiny jewel of pomegranate a sweet explosion on the taste buds. Delicious. We went a bit lighter next with slices of mozzarella and tomato on a bed of fresh rocket, plus a feta and orange salad. That prepped us perfectly for the chorizo that followed, which was cooked in red wine, honey and garlic, alongside a chicken drumstick coated in ‘secret spices’. I like it when some things remain a mystery like that, and it was relaxed enough to abandon the cutlery in favour of fingers to really tuck in. And yes, by this point we were ready to plead mercy, but there was just one more surprise to go – dessert.
Busy trying to conjure the most Spanish sweet I could think of, the fruit fondue with bowls of both salted caramel and chocolate sauce delivered the perfect end to the evening. Featuring the biggest strawberries I’ve seen this side of June, plus raspberries, blueberries and a selection of marshmallows, I almost dipped my finger in the chocolate bowl to get the last drop. Okay, I did dip my finger in the chocolate bowl to get the last drop! What an experience and such a great concept: a taste sensation with every bite, capitalising on local, seasonal produce with an emphasis on no waste and great value. We’ll definitely be back. Taste Buds, Lawn Street, Paisley, PA1 1HF. 0141 889 9555. Find out more about the Tapas Supper Clubs at facebook.com/ tastebudspaisley/. Follow Rebecca on Twitter at @Dainty_Dora.
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SOMETHING FOR ALL TASTES...
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FOOD & DRINK
LUNCH AT PAPAMACS GOURMET KITCHEN Affordable fine dining is the order of the day at this highly impressive family-owned restaurant in Johnstone. Paul Whitelaw finds himself spoiled for choice.
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he range of food on offer at Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen is quite something to behold. I’m not just talking about the sheer variety of meals, snacks and desserts to choose from: Papamacs serve up high-quality fare. That’s because its co-proprietor, Scott Keenan, is an acclaimed fine dining chef with several years of experience under his belt. Scott and his team were busily slaving away in the kitchen when t’other Paul and I arrived for lunch. After being shown to our table by a friendly member of his waiting staff (as opposed to an unfriendly member of his waiting staff, who presumably don’t exist), we took some time to choose something from the bounteous menu. While struggling to make a final decision, I surveyed my surroundings like the seasoned multitasker I am. Papamacs is fairly small without being claustrophobic. It’s cosy and tasteful. It may offer the finest fine dining, but it’s not pretentious in the slightest.
Paul (him, not me) fancied something eggy, an astonishing stroke of luck as the all-day breakfast menu is a veritable yolk fiesta. He eventually opted for the location-specific Eggs Johnstone (£6), an unabashedly mouth-watering dish consisting of creamy poached eggs and a sumptuous sausage served on thick pillows of toast. I seized upon the home-baked Angry Scotsman pizza (£6), a hot, delicious and supremely filling combination of tomato sugo, mozzarella, chili and dizzying satchels of feta cheese. While I happily recovered from this spicy dairy feast, my namesake found room for dessert: a delectable chocolate brownie (£2.50). Papamacs proves that you don’t need deep pockets if you fancy dining out on some exceptional food. You won’t spend more than £10 on a two-course meal. What’s more, Scott and co provide an array of pop-up events and healthy ready-meal deliveries. Check out their website for more details. It’s a little restaurant with big ambitions, effortlessly backed up by the incontestable quality of its food, service and ambience. Unlike most things in life , it won’t disappoint. Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen is located at 5 Houston Square, Johnstone, PA5 8DT. 01505 325 772. papamacs.co.uk.
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FOOD & DRINK
DINNER AT THE BOARDING HOUSE
Fancy dining out on some hearty value-for-money food in a relaxing atmosphere? Then let Juliette Jones be your guide to this splendid village eatery.
T
he Boarding House is a treat from the get-go. Arrestingly, it used to be a coach and horses inn which opened in 1770. You’ll find it in leafy Howwood, a village situated in between Johnstone and Lochwinnoch which looks like it belongs in the better class of BBC daytime drama. We were greeted by the friendly knows-his-drinks barman, who was happily mixing and pouring from behind a smart, well-stocked chrome bar in the Ale House section. Look to your left, though, and you’ll see that the main eating area has a more traditional but smart feel: there are pleasant dark wood tables and chairs nesting amongst interesting wall art. The Boarding House is laden with nooks, crannies and off-rooms: it’s probably quite easy to tell that it was once an inn. Something about the layout, pleasingly so, gives the impression of the ghost of a late ‘80s/early ‘90s hostelry, an impression probably helped along by the background music which spins its way through The Style Council and OMD. It’s perhaps a place where, say, The Associates might have gladly visited to celebrate chart success. There’s a restful feel,
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too, with a pleasant hotel-y ambience that Alan Partridge can only dream of lounging around in. The Boarding House prides itself on its hearty, value-formoney food, something that chimed with our lovely set menu of chicken parfait, macaroni cheese (haddock mornay for my dining partner) with garlic bread and millionaire’s shortbread dessert (£18.95). These delicious meals were flanked with a mellow Pinot Grigio (£4.50) and followed up with a cup of tea (£2.20). It’s sometimes easy to feel like you’ve outstayed your welcome if two waiting staffs change shifts towards the end of your course, but ours passed the baton with ease and we were made to feel like we were welcome to stay until the doors closed. Sipping my cup of tea, my mind wandered to the space upstairs, which turns out to be a series of function rooms and a roof terrace. Thoroughly recommended, and a nice change of pace from the big city. The Boarding House, Main Street, Howwood, PA9 1BQ. 01505 703 119. theboardinghouse.co.uk
Where to pick up your copy of Mill If you are a business that would like to distribute Mill, please contact paul@millmagazine.co.uk PAISLEY Abbey Mill Business Centre 12 Seedhill Road, PA1 1JS Black & Lizars 6 New Street, PA1 1XY Blend Coffee Lounge 25b Causeyside Street, PA1 1UL Brick Lane Studios Forrester House, Weir Street, PA3 4DW Bull Inn 7 New Street, PA1 1XU Cafe Lusso 4 School Wynd, PA1 2DB Cardosi Espresso Bar 65 High Street, PA1 2AS Comicrazy 45 Old Sneddon Street, PA3 2AN Courtyard by Marriott Marchburn Drive, Glasgow Airport Business Park, PA3 2SJ Claire Reid Hairdressing 7 Mill Street, PA1 1LY DP Group Mirren Court, 119 Renfrew Road, PA3 4EA Elixir Lounge, Upper Floor 12 New Street, PA1 1XY Ethos Hair & Beauty Unit 2 Brown’s Lane, PA1 2JH Eve Spa 11 Christie Street, PA1 1NB Finishing Touches 7 Johnston St, Paisley PA1 1XQ Fullerton Chiropractic 7 Neilston Road, PA2 6LL Gael Interiors 4 Orchard Street, PA1 1UZ Gantry 12 New Street, PA1 1XY Graphic Hair Design 67 Glasgow Road, PA1 3PD Grumpy Monkey 22 Moss Street, PA1 1BA Houston Kiltmakers 67 High Street, PA1 2AY Iain Stewart Hairdressing 97 Causeyside Street, PA1 1TU Iconic Fitness 10-12 Lawn Street, PA1 1HA Incube Shop 9b Gilmour Street, PA1 1DG Incube 27 High Street, PA1 2AF Incognito 63 Causeyside Street, PA1 1YT Ivad Gifts 95 Causeyside Street, PA1 1TU, 29 Gauze Street, PA1 1ES Jam Jar 16 Shuttle Street, PA1 1YD James Martin Hairdressing 74 Causeyside Street, PA1 1YP John McKay Jewellers 53 Moss Street, PA1 1DR Kenneth Edwards 45 Causeyside Street, PA1 1YN Lagoon Leisure Centre 11 Christie Street, PA1 1NB Lixie Boutique 14 New Street, PA1 1XY Mad Hatter’s 39 Gauze Street, PA1 1EZ Milton Watermill Hotel Bladda Lane, PA1 1SR My Hair Guru 48 Glasgow Road, PA1 3PW Obsession of India 32 Moss Street, PA1 1BA
Orchard Clinic 16 Orchard Street, PA1 1UZ Paisley Physiotherapy 13 Old Sneddon Street, PA3 2AG Piazza Shopping Centre Central Way, PA1 1EL Rainbow Turtle 7 Gauze Street, PA1 1EP Rowantree Café 165 Glasgow Road, PA1 3LF Shoe 52 5 Mill Street, PA1 1LY Skirlies Cafe 4 Broomlands Street, PA1 2LR Soho Salon 35 High Street, PA1 2AF Ta Ta Bella’s Tea Room 63 High Street, PA1 2AS Taste Buds 22b Lawn Street, PA1 1HF The Gatehouse Coffee Roasters Benn Avenue, PA1 1JS The Lane 7 Shuttle Street, PA1 1YD The Little Coffee Company 28 Causeyside Street, PA1 1UN The Wee Howff 53 High Street, PA1 2AN White Cart Company 75 Glasgow Road, PA1 3PE, 30B High Street, PA1 2BZ Woodlands Coffee House 44 Glasgow Road, PA1 3PW Zambretto 42 Old Sneddon Street, PA3 2AP BISHOPTON Angelini’s Pizzeria & Cafe 76 Greenock Road, PA7 5JB Ingliston Country Club & Hotel Old Greenock Road, PA7 5PA May’s Coffee Shop 19 Greenock Road, PA7 5JW BRIDGE OF WEIR Harrods Dry Cleaners 8 Castle Terrace, PA11 3EF Laura’s Nail & Beauty Lounge 37 Main St, PA11 3NR The Lion’s Paw 1 Morrison Place, PA11 3NU Tulip Hair Design Unit 10, 23 Livery Walk, PA11 3NN ELDERSLIE Butchers Steak & Grill 133 Main Road, PA5 9ES Elderslie Coffee Shop 11 Stoddard Square, PA5 9AS Hairpod 16A Canal Street, PA5 9AU ERSKINE Erskine Swimming Pool Bridgewater Centre, PA8 7AA Look Opticians Bridgewater Place, PA8 7AA HILLINGTON Ducati Glasgow 6 Mossland Drive, G52 4FA Origin Fitness 22 Earl Haig Road, G52 4JU The Experience Montrose Avenue, G52 4JR
HOUSTON The Carrick Centre Coffee Shop Main Street, PA6 7HD The Paper Shop North Street, PA6 7HF HOWWOOD The Boarding House Main Street, PA9 1BQ INCHINNAN The Farm at No.12 12 Brownsfield Holding, Barnsford Road, PA4 9LZ INTU BRAEHEAD King’s Inch Road, Glasgow, G51 4BN JOHNSTONE Hairpod 62A High Street, PA5 8SJ Johnstone Coffee Co. 71 High Street, PA5 8QG Johnstone Community Sports Hub Beith Road, PA5 0JA No. 8 66 High Street, PA5 8SG Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen 5 Houstoun Square, PA5 8DT Quality Cards & Gifts 2 Houstoun Square, PA5 8DT Signature Permanent Cosmetics 6-8 Walkinshaw Street, PA5 8AB The Wee Cafe @47 47 High Street, PA5 8AJ KILBARCHAN Bobbins 25 Steeple Street, PA10 2JF KILMACOLM Cairn Drumpellier Place, 1 Lochwinnoch Road, PA13 4HE Wild Rose Ardgowan Place, PA13 4AA LINWOOD On-X Linwood Brediland Road, PA3 3RA The Salon 15 Napier Street, PA3 3AJ Tweedie Hall and Library 15 Bridge Street, PA3 3DB LOCHWINNOCH Bluewater Dentist 69 High Street, PA12 4AB Cucina Minucci 2 High Street, PA12 4DA Now & Then 8 Church Street, PA12 4AD RSPB Largs Road, PA12 4JF QUARRIER'S VILLAGE The Sourcery Faith Avenue, PA11 3TF Three Sisters Bake Faith Avenue, PA11 3TF RENFREW Renfrew Leisure Centre Paisley Road, PA4 8JL Quality Cards & Gifts 17 Canal Street, PA4 8QE CK Hair 44 Canal Street, PA4 8QD The Hair Boutique 28 High Street, PA4 8QP Judy McFaite Hairdressing 29 Dunlop Street, PA4 8PG
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LAST WORD
PEOPLE
Lil Brookes is a Renfrewshire-born artist and social historian.
How did you get involved with communitybased art projects? Through the whole Paisley 2021 thing. I did an original painting for the cover of one of the documents that went to London. Before that I’d done paintings mostly based on textiles. Because I’m an historian I like to do research beforehand and I’ve always been fascinated with the Paisley pattern. When you look at it it’s almost quite hypnotic. I paint, draw, sell original cards and prints, all based on history and Paisley patterns. Tell us about your role as a social historian… I do a lot of work for TH.CARS2, the Paisley town heritage regeneration scheme. My background is working in community heritage, so I was asked to put a tender in for a big project called Dynasty, which was about the Coats, Steward and Clark families. You’re involved with other projects too? Yes, I’ve also worked on a project about the Paisley poorhouse, which has been really successful. It’s called The Matron, The Parish &
LIL SAYS... FAVOURITE PART OF RENFREWSHIRE? Going for a walk along the shore of the Clyde around the site of the old Erskine Ferry BEST PLACE FOR COFFEE? Brew in Paisley DINNER? Pendulum Bar & Grill in Paisley
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The Pauper Girls, and it’s basically taking adults with various disabilities and learning difficulties and working with two primary six classes, one from St James’ and one from Mossvale. The idea was that we all do a bit of historical research together in an intergenerational sense and create some kind of retelling of the stories of inmates we’ve discovered. It’s part of the untold story of Paisley. What stage is that project currently at? The adults and children have come up with scripts, the children are acting them out, and they’re working with a professional film crew, Media Monty, which is also based in Paisley. They’re a community-based company, absolutely excellent young people. We’re in the process of getting the films edited. More information about Lil’s work and community activities can be found at facebook.com/gatekeeperart.
HOTE L
GLISTON IN
& UB
UNTRY CL CO
Perfect
Al Fresco for
With the sunshine finally making an appearance, Al Fresco dining is just around the corner at Ingliston Country Club & Hotel making it the perfect time to launch our new Spring menu. With a great selection of Light Bites, Pizzas & Pastas and the introduction of our delicious new Vegetarian and Vegan dishes, from the creamy Italian bean hummus, refreshing Watermelon, Feta and Toasted Pine Nut Salad and even a vegan take on the classic BLT! So sit out, enjoy the warm weather and try some of our refreshing new Spring cocktails. Ingliston is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend lunch or dinner and drinks.
FAMILY HOUR
Enjoy a half price pizza or pasta from our menu whilst kids eat for £1 from Kids Menu. Monday to Friday from 4pm–5.30pm.
ITALIAN HOUR
SUNDAY SUPPER CLUB
Enjoy a pizza or pasta dish from our menu or why not choose half pizza + half pasta, includes a pint of Peroni or Glass of Prosecco for £14.95 per person. Saturday evening from 4pm–5.30pm.
Choose any 2 courses from our Horses for Courses menu and we’ll include a bottle of Red, White or Rose wine for £19.95pp. Sunday evenings from 8pm – 10pm. (Minimum of 2 diners and booking required)
OUR BEST
Ingliston Country Club & Hotel, Old Greenock Road, Bishopton, Renfrewshire PA7 5PA t: 01505 864 333 or e: events@ingliston.com
www.ingliston.com
Saturday 18 May
St James Playing Fields, Paisley 10am-6pm
British Pipe Band Championships PIPE BANDS / HIGHLAND GAMES /
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / FOOD VILLAGE FREE SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE
WWW.PAISLEY.IS
