MILL Culture and lifestyle for Paisley and Renfrewshire Scott Reid from Still Game Lost Renfrewshire Poet Laureate
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CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 04 ‘OW-DO! A few words from the editor 06 WHAT’S ON Our sun-kissed events guide
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FEATURES 12 PAISLEY TANGO Argentine passion, local style 14 SCOTT REID Musings from the Still Game and Line of Duty actor 18 THE AGE OF AQUARIUS A curiosity shop full of ancient stones and crystals 20 LOST RENFREWSHIRE Unearthing the past with an urban historian 26 WENDY KERSHAW Award-winning ceramicist 40 JW GRANT Scotland’s largest independent builders’ merchants 44 KILMACOLM An affectionate local guide 46 ST COLUMBA’S SCHOOL High achieving in Kilmacolm 52 BRIAN WHITTINGHAM Meet the Renfrewshire Makar 66 PEOPLE TV and radio presenter Ali DeFoy LIFESTYLE 28 FASHION The Devil’s in the details 36 HEALTH & BEAUTY Cosmetics, dentistry, hair and fitness 42 PROPERTY Expert selling and cleaning advice 48 TRAVEL Discover Lisbon 62 FOOD & DRINK Ice Mania and Caffe Royale CULTURE 56 MUSIC Gig and album tips from Paul Whitelaw and Stuart Braithwaite 60 ENTERTAINMENT A round-up of the best new TV shows, films, DVDs and games
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'OW-DO! Welcome, thrill-seekers, to our bumper summer special. Granted, it’s exactly the same size as our previous issues, but we’ve packed it full of holiday goodies. What will you find in this happily heaving suitcase? Among many, many other things, we eagerly present an interview with the Paisley-based actor Scott Reid, who’s perhaps best known as Methadone Mick from Still Game. We also take a riverside stroll with Brian Whittingham, who was recently appointed as Renfrewshire’s very first Makar/Poet Laureate, and step into the mystic with one of Scotland’s leading stockists of crystals and precious stones. Other highlights include a chat with local radio and television broadcaster Ali DeFoy, some album recommendations from Stuart Braithwaite of Mogwai renown, a scented love letter to the village of Kilmacolm, a fascinating journey through time in the company of Renfrewshire historian Stephen Clancy, and another fantastic fashion shoot courtesy of our student photography friends at West College Scotland. As ever, we’ve also compiled extensive guides to the big gigs and events taking place on your doorstep (not literally, that would be alarming), plus all our usual entertainment, food and drink, beauty, property, interiors and travel goodness. A thousand thanks once again to all of you for reading and supporting our friendly neighbourhood magazine. We’ve been truly delighted by the response. Is that enough from me? I think it probably is. Splice the mainbrace and enjoy!
Paul Whitelaw Paul Whitelaw, Editor
Keep in touch with Paul and the Mill team via social media or email editor@millmagazine.co.uk
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Culture and lifestyle for Paisley and Renfrewshire Scott Reid from Still Game Lost Renfrewshire Poet Laureate
Cover photo by Alastair Hendrie. Turn to p30 for our fashion feature.
Published by Mill Magazine Ltd. Embroidery Mill, Abbey Mill Business Centre, 102, Paisley PA1 1TJ. Editor: Paul Whitelaw Director: Paul Dickson Beauty Editor: Susie Cormack Bruce Travel Editor: David Walsh Sub Editor: Alistair Forrest Contributors: Steven Allan, Gianluca Bernacchi, Zul Bhatia, Roberta Bianchini, Stephen Clancy, Chris Costello, Bill Crookston, Paul English Eoin Graham, Thomas Graham, Alan K. Gray, Ainslie Henderson, Alastair Hendrie, Juliette Jones, Bethenay McBride, Brian McGuire, Lauren Mulvey, Peter Ross, Lauren Russell, James Stevenson
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Our sun-kissed guide to some of the big events taking place near you this summer.
Photo by Mark Gibson
WHAT'S ON
1-24 JUL
1-21 JUL
THE BIG DIG
Did Paisley’s medieval Abbey drain once meet the River Cart? If so, how and where? Answers should be provided by this eight-week archaeological dig, which will help to shape the wider regeneration of Paisley town centre. The project involves community activities including school visits, volunteering opportunities and free talks and workshops. Unearth more details at paisley.is. Paisley Abbey, free.
GET ARTY SUMMER CRAFT CAMPS
Kids can enjoy various arts and crafts activities at these colourful gatherings. Themes include ancient Egypt, Mardi Gras, and Mexican Fiesta and Day of the Dead celebrations. Check facebook.com/GetArty-356592478055299/ for more information. Bargarran Community Centre, Erskine, 10am for primary shcool children, 11.30am for secondary school children, from £7.
1 JUL TO 13 AUG
1 JUL TO 11 AUG
THE LITTLE GARDEN KINGDOM
This brand new outdoor adventure for children involves a map-assisted search for things left behind by The Little People who look after the plants and flowers – and keep the naughty goblins at bay – in this beautiful public garden. Once the challenge is complete, your kids can collect their prize. Greenbank House and Garden, Clarkston, 11am, £2 per child plus normal garden admission. 6 MILL
BRICKS IN SPACE SUMMER TRAIL
Paisley town centre has been transformed into an intergalactic playground with the arrival of seventeen fantastic LEGO Brick models. Local businesses are housing various special hidden items, which children can search for using their space passports (available from shops throughout the town, plus the Piazza Shopping Centre and The Paisley Centre). Paisley town centre, free.
WHAT’S ON
Paisley
POP! 1 JUL TO 13 AUG
KIDS ON THE MOVE
Your kids will love zooming around the mini driving zone at intu Braehead. It’s attached to a little town containing a drive-through burger shack and general store, which they can serve at. At Soar, they’ll get to work on a mini construction site complete with dumper trucks, wheelbarrows and toy jackhammers. intu Braehead and Soar, Renfrew, 10am to 9pm, free. The newly opened POP! Space (see Mill #5) provides local artists and creatives with the opportunity to present an eclectic array of arts events. Upcoming highlights include the first public showing of Paisley in Stitches: Post-War Adventures in DIY Fashion (6 July, 1pm), a short film capturing locals’ memories of making and wearing homemade clothes in the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. This looped showing will be accompanied by ReMode’s Meddle & Make (pictured)drop-in workshop from 1.30pm. Meanwhile, the Free Family Fun Day (13 July, 11am) offers space-themed ‘Make and Take’ workshops for all. Finally, the Paisley Artists Annual Exhibition (10 – 24 August, noon) plays host to a local club with a shared interest in the creation and appreciation of art. Comprised of 75 members, the club meets fortnightly between October and March each year for demonstrations, critic nights, work nights and slide presentations. This is their first annual show. Pop! Space, Unit 34 – 36, Piazza Shopping Centre, Paisley, free.
WED 3 JUL 7PM
MEDDLE & MAKE WORKSHOP
ReMode, the environmentally friendly upcycling organisation, host this workshop for members of the public who’d like to mend, adjust and embroider old yet favoured items of clothing. A team of experienced designers and makers will be on hand to assist. ReMode Make Space, Lochwinnoch, 7pm, free but booking required.
SAT 6 JUL
SMA' SHOT DAY
This annual gala is a celebration of the time when Paisley’s weavers would traditionally take their holidays. It involves 50 events taking place across 20 different venues and begins at noon with a colourful parade from Brodie Park to the Arts Centre. Floats, giant puppets, music, theatre, poetry, crafts, weaving demonstrations and several family-friendly activities will compete for your attention. Paisley, free. MILL 7
5 & 19 JUL & 2 AUG
SHOP SPACE
The Glasgow Science Centre are providing a range of fun activities at the Piazza in Paisley this summer. Visitors will get the chance to perform everyday tasks using two robotic arms used by astronauts on the International Space Station. You can also meet GSC Science Communicators wearing a replica of the suit which Tim Peake wore during rocket launch and re-entry to Earth on his famous mission to the ISS. There’s also a chance to explore interactive exhibits which explain how we generate the energy used for space flight. Piazza Shopping Centre, Paisley, free.
Photo by Martin Shields
25-26 JUL
CIRCUS EXTREME
SUN 14 JUL MIDDAY
BOWFIELD SUMMER FUN DAY
Carnival and pony rides, birds of prey, tug of war, cocktail masterclasses and a charity Zumbathon are among the treats to be enjoyed at this fizzy family event. Bowfield Hotel & Country Club, Howwood, free. 8 MILL
Five years in the making, this one-ofa-kind extravaganza merges contemporary styles and extreme stunts with traditional clowning. Expect nail-biting high wire tension, aerial acrobatics and wheel of death escapades. intu Braehead, Renfrew, 3pm/7.45pm, from ÂŁ8.
WHAT’S ON
SAT 10 AUG 11AM
MOSSVALE COMMUNITY CHURCH GROUP SUMMER FETE
Coffee! Candy floss! A bouncy castle! All of these things and more will be available at this fundraising event. Mossvale Community Church, Paisley.
SAT 10 AUG 11AM
JOHNSTONE FIRE ENGINE RALLY
An impressive motorcade of vintage fire engines are the stars of this annual parade, which begins at Johnstone Fire Station before heading down Thorn Brae towards Houston Square, where they’ll form the centrepiece of an afternoon of music, entertainment and dramatic demonstrations from Scottish Fire and Rescue. Free.
FRI 16 AUG 1PM
HIDE & SEEK CHAMPIONSHIP
Outdoor fun is guaranteed at this playful event for children, which involves various games of safely monitored hide and seek. They can also try some international versions of this classic kids’ favourite. Whitelee Windfarm Visitor Centre, Eaglesham, free.
17-18 AUG
FILM & COMIC CON GLASGOW
This year’s celebration of TV, film and comics gives fans the chance to meet stars such as Indira Varma and Gemma Whelan (pictured) from Game of Thrones, plus Sophie Aldred, John Levene and Katy Manning from classic-era Doctor Who. There will also be hundreds of stalls packed with memorabilia. intu Braehead Arena, Renfrew, 9am/10am, from £8. MILL 9
WHAT’S ON
SAT 24 AUG MIDDAY
Photo by Brian McGuire, paisley.org.uk SUN 18 AUG 10AM
PAISLEY 10K ROAD RACE AND FUN RUN
It’s time once again to strap on your running shoes for this grand event, which is suitable for runners of all levels. The shorter Fun Run, which takes in some of Paisley town centre’s most notable landmarks, is aimed at families and children. County Square, from £2, see website for registration details: primoevents.com.
GIFFNOCK BEER FESTIVAL
Now in its fifth year, this thirstquenching summit offers a wide range of Scottish beers, ciders and gins alongside a prosecco bar and some delicious street food. A family-friendly affair, it also hosts fairground rides, face painting and other activities for children. GHA Rugby Club, adults from £5, children free.
WE NEED YOUR EVENTS The Ladybugg SUN 25 AUG 12.30PM
EMAIL INFO@MILLMAGAZINE.CO.UK 10 MILL
JOHNSTONE GALA DAY
Highlights of this annual hootenanny include a dog show, a football tournament, a presentation by Renfrewshire Model Railway Club and a cavalcade of dancers, choirs and musical performers, including local singer-songwriter Zoe Tait aka The Ladybugg (pictured). You can also browse a range of stalls selling sweets, toys, crafts and jewellery. Thomas Shanks Park, free.
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Tango! EVERYBODY
A husband and wife team are putting Paisley on the map with a hot dose of Latin American passion.
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How did you get involved in tango? Myself and my wife have danced socially for about ten years. We eventually went to teachers all around the world - last year we trained for a month in Buenos Aires. We weren’t planning on teaching but the demand was there in Paisley. How did the festival come about? Paisley was going into the competition for 2021 and I thought, ‘What better way to get involved in culture than with an international dance festival?’ The first year we had visitors from all around the world. That was a bit of a shock for us, as we didn’t know how big or small it would be. I now get approached at least once a month from international professionals wanting to come here. On an average Saturday night we’ll have over 250 people, most of them from outside Paisley. 12 MILL
Photo by Steven Allan
ow in its third year, the Paisley International Tango Festival is currently the only event of its kind in Scotland. It’s the brainchild of Drew and Taryn Moir, who also host lessons and events throughout the year. Thanks to their expert efforts, Renfrewshire now has a thriving tango community. This year’s festival boasts acclaimed professional dancers from around the world, an eight-piece Argentine tango orchestra and three fun social events known within the trade as milongas. We spoke to Drew to find out more. Has the success of shows such as Strictly Come Dancing changed attitudes towards dance? I think it’s opened the doors for more guys to come dancing. With Argentine tango it’s not as flowery as some other dances. I’m a typical west coast of Scotland guy, shaking hands is a bit tactile for us. At first you might look at
the tango and think, ‘Oh wow, that’s outside my remit, that’s culturally not acceptable.’ I worked in a garage, a guy born and bred in Govan and Ibrox, so for me it was quite a big step – but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. Now because of Strictly more guys are taking that step. Everyone says they’ve got two left feet, but that’s why you go to lessons. Is it true you have your own Paisley pattern based on one worn by a wax figurine of Prince? Yes. It had white doves, guitars, all these symbols. I found the designer, Patrick Moriarty, and he’s created a Paisley Tango paisley pattern for us! (pictured left) The Paisley International Tango Festival takes place between 6th and 8th September. Details can be found at paisleytango.com.
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FEATURES
INTERVIEW
Scott Reid
Best known for playing Methadone Mick in Still Game, the Paisley-based actor opens up about the highs and lows of working within an unpredictable industry. 14 MILL
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S
cott Reid has St Mirren to thank for his career. A keen footballer, he had a trial for the team as a teenager. As he recalls, “They said to me, ‘You’re as good as what we’ve got already.’ So they never took me on. When I went home my dad said, ‘Right, you need to pick which one you want to do, acting or football.’ At the time I probably thought I was a better actor than a footballer, I had a higher chance of going further in that industry.” He went on to study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, toured with the National Theatre in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and got his big break with prominent supporting roles in Still Game and series four of Line of Duty. When did you first get the acting bug? I started at PACE [Youth Theatre] from about age six, that was a huge part of my life. On a Saturday morning I played football then went to PACE in the afternoon, just to give my mum and dad a bit of peace and quiet really. I remember doing a play at the Arts Centre where I was playing this old man with a walking stick. That’s one my dad still talks about now, it was the first moment when he recognised I had any form of ability. How did your role in Still Game come about? I was in a show at the Citizen’s Theatre called The Choir, which was written by Ricky Ross from Deacon Blue and the actor Paul Higgins. I played this loud ned character. I’d met Greg Hemphill a couple of times and he came to see the show, which obviously made a lasting impression. About three months later I got a message from him saying they’d written this character and, if I was interested, would I like to come and read it with them. That was really surreal, sitting in my bedroom and getting a message from one of the creators of Chewin’ the Fat and Still Game. I thought someone was having me on! What was the audition like? I went to Greg’s house and that was so strange. You think you know these men but you don’t, you just know the characters they play. I turned up and they were sitting
Q&A FAVOURITE PART OF RENFREWSHIRE? Up towards the observatory, that’s a beautiful area. I spend a lot of time up there. BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH? Johnstone Coffee Co. BEST PLACE FOR DINNER? Trattoria Genova in Paisley. BEST PUB? The Old Swan Inn in Paisley.
on the steps, it was a beautiful sunny day, and Greg was puffing on a huge vape. Ford [Kiernan] had this big pink shirt on. The whole thing was really relaxed, they were really appreciative. We sat down in his living room, they handed me a couple of scripts and we talked about the character. As soon as we started reading they were literally, like the flick of a switch, back being Jack and Victor. That was a brilliant moment for me, I felt very privileged. It was important to you that Mick’s drug addiction was never the butt of the joke? Yes. My dad is the manager of a resettlement home in Bridgeton. He deals with people coming out of prison or guys who are facing homelessness or going through the methadone programme, so I’ve met some wonderful people whose problem wasn’t that they were taking methadone, it was because they had an addiction, a really bad illness. These people are really funny, really down to earth. They’ve hit the bottom, they have nothing, but they’re starting to turn their lives around. What does that teach you about yourself? Mick was just a guy who was happy to be alive. MILL 15
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“
ONLY FOUR PERCENT OF ARTISTS MAKE A LIVING PURELY DOING WHAT THEY DO, SO I FEEL REALLY LUCKY THAT I’M IN THE POSITION THAT I’M IN
But some people didn’t get that? I’ve read a few articles and things online where people have hit into Methadone Mick, saying it was all about us taking the piss out of people with drug habits. That’s absolutely infuriating because you can’t really respond, you don’t want to get involved in an argument. You know what’s in your heart. It’s very easy for the people responsible for solving homelessness and drug addiction to blame a television programme for these things, as that removes the blame from themselves. It was quite upsetting reading these things because you try to do something to the best of your abilities from a humanitarian aspect, then people throw it back in your face. They don’t really know you, they don’t really know you’ve done your research. That got to me a wee bit. In Line of Duty you played a sex offender with severe learning difficulties. How do you prepare for a role like that? My mum and dad are actually foster parents and we’d been talking a lot about the early years of kids if they don’t get love and nourishment. They basically struggle to make the kind of bonds and connections that kids who do receive it make. Michael Farmer was a guy who had been socially neglected, he didn’t have that 16 MILL
connection with his parents, he hadn’t been taught how to feel emotions. Once you find the humanity within that character, when you find that the root of his problem is he can’t communicate, you don’t judge him, you just play the person who’s struggling instead of playing the bad elements about him. Do you enjoy your job? It’s not easy for your mind-set, you live a very anxious life. You don’t know when work is coming, it’s very up and down, but it’s more up and down for the people who love you really. You become accustomed to dealing with not knowing what’s coming next, but it takes its toll on your family and your partner. It’s a precarious industry? Theatres don’t have as much money anymore, they’re not producing much of their own work. The television sector, certainly the BBC, isn’t doing as much stuff as they were twenty or thirty years ago. To make a steady living – not a glamorous living – is more difficult than ever. Only four percent of artists make a living purely doing what they do, so I feel really lucky that I’m in the position that I’m in. Opportunities have come in at the right time.
THE AGE OF AQUARIUS “M
y family were very spiritual,” reveals Robert Watson, proprietor of Aquarius Crystals & Gifts in Paisley. “My aunt was a seer and she was well-known for having second sight. A lot of that relates to what the business is about, although we don’t sell that service to the public.” Robert’s interest in crystals and geology has been a lifelong pursuit. “My mother’s family grew up in the Western Isles,” he reveals, “where the stones our house was built from were three billion years old, the same rock that the world famous Callanish Stones are made from. So it’s in the blood. I’ve always collected stones 18 MILL
from whatever part of the world I’ve visited. Normal people would bring back maybe a stick of rock or a sombrero, I’ve always brought stones home.” When the shop opened in 1989, as Scotmed, it was a conventional medical business supplying products such as wheelchairs to the public. A few years ago, however, Robert gradually introduced crystals into their stock. “That’s now taken over the whole shop.” So what does it provide for alternative-minded customers? “Everyone here is trained in crystals,” he explains. “We’re one of the largest suppliers of crystals in the west of
Scotland. We purchase from all over the world, from the Outer Hebrides to the mines of Brazil. We also stock some of the oldest rocks in the world, and from other worlds. We have petrified trees and even a tiny piece of meteorite from Mars, things people have never seen in their lives. The other side of the business is a bit more fun, we have dragons, skulls and Game of Thrones items.” Robert is quick to point out that all are welcome at Aquarius, regardless of religion or faith. “We have a very eclectic mix covering all sorts of things,” he says. “We’re not here to decide what’s right for people to believe or not, we give them access
Photos by James Stevenson, insta: jablesphotography
When the moon is in the seventh house and Jupiter aligns with Mars, hurry down to Renfrewshire’s leading purveyor of crystals and semi-precious stones.
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to a huge selection of very unusual products. We cater for Buddhists, Hindus, Witches, Druids, Christians, you name it.” Does Renfrewshire have a thriving witch community? “We don’t ask people what they are when they come into the shop,” he states. “It would be incorrect to go down that road, but as far as I’m aware Paisley is quite renowned for the Paisley witches, both historically and for the annual march through the town. On our doorstep is the Gallow Green where the witches were actually executed. It’s literally half a dozen steps away from the shop.” Isn’t that a remarkable coincidence? “You could say life is a coincidence in that case!” he smiles. “We didn’t choose to be here and we didn’t buy the shop knowing that at the time. It’s just that these things are meant to be.”
Aquarius is also home to several bespoke pieces of art. “We have paintings by local artists and a lot of handmade pottery,” explains Robert. “We have a policy of trying to purchase locally where we can, but the law now prevents us from doing that. There was a day when we could buy soaps and lotions and potions from local people, but I’m afraid trading standards would come down rather heavily on us if we did something like that now. In the spirit of keeping things local, the shop’s outside shutters bear a striking design by the Paisley artist Mark Worst, whose work is a familiar sight around town. “He’s the guy that’s done all the artwork for the tenements in Paisley,” says Robert. “Mark actually approached us, he wanted to do it because he’s also a customer. The place probably
looks better when it’s closed than it does when it’s open!” While he is aware that alternative healing products of the type sold at Aquarius can sometimes invite scepticism, Robert claims to have noticed their instantly uplifting effect on customers. “People come into the shop and they become quite emotional because the crystals have a really strong presence. It effects people without them realising it. They come in thinking it’s all a load of nonsense and within five minutes they’re telling me their life story. People don’t do that when they go into Asda to do their shopping.” Aquarius Crystals & Gifts, 1-3 Queen Street, Paisley, PA1 2TT. 0141 887 7074 and 0141 842 1842. aquariuscrystals.co.uk and facebook. com/aquariuscrystals. MILL 19
LOST RENFREWSHIRE Go deeper underground in the company of urban historian Stephen Clancy, as he takes us on a fascinating journey through time.
Bankhead Mill, 1966, ŠHES, reproduced courtesy of J R Hume
20 MILL
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T
he hidden gems of Renfrewshire’s past are mostly hidden beneath our feet, never to be seen again. However, in some cases such as Paisley Abbey’s magnificent Medieval Drain, currently under excavation once again, we do see glimpses into the past. Here we set out to explore historical parts of Renfrewshire buried below ground level. BANKHEAD MILL, NEW SNEDDON, PAISLEY Who has heard of the Bankhead Mill? Everyone knows of the Anchor Thread Works and Fergulsie Mills, but many have never heard of the other mills in Paisley. Bankhead was the first large scale thread manufacturer in Paisley, owned by John Carlile and followed by his sons William, James and Alexander. John arrived in 1743 with the sole intention of making linen thread. Their Bankhead Mill at Carlile Quay was established when John first arrived and their home, Greenbank House, was built beside the Mill on New Sneddon Street. Carlile Place along with Carlile Quay followed. The business was eventually bought by the Clark family and incorporated into the Anchor Mills, but the Carlile family made an impression on the town with William being Provost of Paisley twice, and James during 1822-24.
Inkerman School, photo by Thomas Graham, Digitalpict.com
Fact: Sir William Arrol constructed a Bascule Bridge over the White Cart at the foot of Carlile Place to allow workers at Thomas White & Son easier access to their workplace. The lifting mechanism is still there, but the bridge is now in a dangerous condition and at risk of disappearing altogether. Mar Hall Crannog, photo by Lairich Rig
INKERMAN VILLAGE, LINWOOD As you drive along the A737 from St James’ towards Linwood you pass over the lost village of Inkerman. As you cross Blackstone Road, Inkerman Bowling Club survives on the left. Further along on the right, Inkerman School survives as a restored cottage. The village consisted of three rows of cottages, plus the school and reading room, a shop, a mission hall and later the bowling club. The population by 1881 was 948. By 1891 it had fallen to 699 as the mines began to close. By 1940 the three rows of cottages had been demolished and they only survive now in our memories. Fact: The village was named after the 1854 British military victory at the Battle of Inkerman during the Crimean War.
MAR HALL CRANNOG Crannogs are usually referred to as loch dwellings but in Renfrewshire we have three that sit on the edge of the River
Clyde. They are essentially round houses built on piles made of tree trunks. One sits just off shore from Mar Hall Hotel. It is oval in shape, being 30m by 40m at its widest diameters. This site has never been excavated, but it has been recorded several times in the last 30 years. Dumbuck Crannog (NS71577392) on the north side of the Clyde, close to the whisky bonds of Dumbarton, has to be considered part of the Renfrewshire group. Excavations there uncovered a dock with a log boat still docked. Radiocarbon dates show that the crannog was built sometime between 200BC and AD200. Fact: During the excavations, the excavator paid his staff by the number of finds they made. Some of the finds were spectacular figurines carved from shale, along with other unusual objects. However, after a short period of time it was discovered they were forgeries, carved by the paid workmen and hidden during their lunch hour. MILL 21
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ELDERSLIE: WAS WALLACE HERE? Elderslie is another ancient Renfrewshire settlement with a claim to fame. Without doubt it was the birth place of William Wallace, Guardian of Scotland. Approaching the village from Paisley you reach the Wallace monument, and site of the ‘Wallace House’. The remains of this house stood until 1973 and only the foundations exist today. The house dated to the 16th or 17th century, so Wallace could never have been born there! There are, however, the remains of a large moated enclosure that encompasses all of the gardens where the memorial is, covering around the same area as the existing gardens. This enclosure had circular towers at each corner and could be classed as a fortified farmstead. The farmstead is shown on a map of Scotland produced just after the 1745 rebellion, but is typical of a much earlier settlement. The Wallace connection can also be tied to the site. His father was Malcolm, and we know that Malcolm Wallace, born around 1220 in Elderslie, owned a large farm. Could this be the one where the memorial is? Fact: Did you know that Wallace meant “Welsh Speaking”? William Wallace’s ancestors came north with the High Stewards as their vassals. The Wallace’s were granted the lands of Elderslie sometime before 1250.
This photograph, taken from the edge of Kilmacolm Golf Course during the excavation, is reproduced with the kind permission of Mrs Catherine Newall. Today the site is encircled by a planting of fir trees.
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Wallace Monument, Elderslie, photo by J Cooper
KNAPPS HOMESTEAD, KILMACOLM Knapps Homestead, on the outskirts of Kilmacolm close to Knapps Loch, was excavated by the late Frank Newall during 1961/62. The settlement sits on a mound overlooking the loch and was surrounded by a timber palisade (fence). It was known as a medieval settlement, but Frank discovered a hidden settlement below the remains containing a central rectangular building and three circular huts. Frank placed it in the Neolithic period. Finds, though scarce, included quartz blades, flint knives and scrapers along with fragments of pottery and saddle querns for grinding grain. The farmstead was occupied during the 14th and 15th Centuries and later reused in the 17th Century. Fact: During a spell of trouble at Duchal Castle, a later home of those who lived at Knapps, the famous medieval bombard Mons Meg was brought from Edinburgh to destroy the castle by King James IV during a siege.
FEATURES
THE MONASTERY OF PAISLEY The Abbey of Paisley is the jewel in the crown of Renfrewshire’s tourist attractions, and was founded in 1163 by Walter fitz Alan, the first High Steward of Scotland. Founded as a Priory, within a few hundred years it gained the privilege of being ruled by an Abbot and was upgraded to Abbey status. The Abbey we know today has undergone many fires, collapses and reconstruction work, but it was only one of a complex of fourteen buildings that constituted the Monastery of Paisley. A few still survive today as part of the Abbey complex, but where were the other buildings? Cotton Street Renfrewshire House and Police Station now hide the Abbots Lodging, the Abbots Chambers, the Infirmary, Lady Chapel and other domestic buildings. Today the Infirmary and Lady Chapel are most likely to be under Bridge Street, close to the council car park entrance and public footpath to Renfrewshire house. Fact: The first burial at Paisley Priory was Margaret, daughter of Walter fitz Alan, around 1164. The Priory would not have been complete, but the Infirmary and Lady Chapel would have been ready by this time as a place of worship for the monks. It is most likely that Margaret, all the High Stewards with their families and King Robert III are buried in the Chapel under Cotton Street.
CASTLEHILL GARDENS, RENFREW, SITE OF THE SECOND RENFREW CASTLE Sitting between Canal Street and Orchard Street in Renfrew lies Castlehill Gardens, the former site of Castlehill House built by the Lobnitz family, owners of the Lobnitz shipyard in Renfrew. The site dates back to the late 13th Century with a castle built as the chief residence of the High Stewards of Scotland and their successors. It gained Royal status on the accession of Robert II to the throne in 1371. Excavations in 1997 by the Renfrewshire Local History forum and Centre for Field Archaeology at Edinburgh University found evidence of the bay window of Castlehill House, the probable site of a greenhouse and two parallel strips of concrete interpreted as foundations of prefab houses built after World War II. Evidence of the castle was found on the last day of the excavation. Around 2m below ground level a corner of two walls, 1m thick, was revealed, with shards of 12th to 14th Century cooking pots being found in relation to the wall. Fact: Although officially King of Scotland, Robert III had no authority to rule directly. His younger brother, Robert, Duke of Albany, who had been appointed by their father as the preferred Guardian of Scotland in the final years of his reign, ruled instead. 24 MILL
Paisley Abbey, photo by Alan K. Gray
Renfrew Castle, image courtesy of Grian Press
Learn more about Stephen and his wide-ranging studies at theurbanhistorian.co.uk. Thanks to The Heritage Centre - Renfrewshire Leisure, Paisley Museum, Renfrewshire Local History Forum, Historic Environment Scotland and Grian Press for making this feature possible.
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WINNER of
Best Dessert Parlour At Scotland’s International Community & Business Awards 2019
13 Livery Walk, Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3NN. 01505 612 323.
NOT JUST ANOTHER
ITALIAN RESTAURANT At Caffè Royale, we use the finest and freshest Italian and local seasonal produce to create Sicilian and Italian style dishes at affordable prices. Market Menu: 2 courses for £13.95 or 3 courses for £16.95.
71 Glasgow Road, Paisley PA1 3PE To make a reservation call 0141 858 5135 royalecaffe caffe_royale_paisley cafferoyalepaisley.co.uk
NOT JUST ANOTHER
INTERVIEW
Kershaw Meet an award-winning ceramicist who creates narrative illustrations on porcelain. 26 MILL
Photo by Zul Bhatia
Wendy
FEATURES
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n a converted farmhouse just outside Lochwinnoch, Wendy Kershaw appears to be enjoying an idyllic life combining work with feathered domesticity. When we call her in her workshop, she reveals she’s not alone: “Two pheasants are watching me from outside as I haven’t put food out for them…” Originally from Airdrie, Wendy has lived in rural Renfrewshire since 2012. During that time she’s been gainfully employed as an in-demand ceramics maker, a job she was always destined to have. “I used to dig clay out of the garden to make things when I was young,” she recalls. “I always made things. Then I finally got into art school after trying for years and years. I went to Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen then the Cardiff Institute of Higher Education for my master’s degree.” After achieving her qualifications, she became an artist in residence at various schools around the country, lectured at Fife College in Glenrothes and worked as a ceramics technician at the Glasgow School of Art. “We were the last department in the country and they closed us down in 2011,” she says ruefully. One of her biggest professional achievements so far is having her work displayed in the permanent collections of two prestigious museums in China. How did that come about? “There’s a big show conference in America every year, around 6,000 potters go to it, and I got my work into that,” she says. “Caroline Cheng, who runs the pottery workshops there, invited me over to either Shanghai or Jingdezhen, the ancient porcelain capital, to make more work. I couldn’t decide which one to go to so I asked if I could go to both, and she said yes. The Scottish Arts Council funded my flights, so I went there for four months. At the end of that I had a show, which I then brought back to the art school.” This experience had a profound effect on her work, as she explains. “It did me so much good being exposed to that culture and history. I usually draw with needles into clay, but when I went to China I didn’t want to do the work I usually did, I wanted to try everything they had there. One of the things
Gin Angel by Wendy Kershaw
Q&A FAVOURITE PART OF RENFREWSHIRE? Calder Glen in Muirshiel Park. I love living here, it’s beautiful and quiet with amazing wildlife. BEST PLACE FOR COFFEE? The Junction in Lochwinnoch, they do a great soya latte. BEST PUB? The Brown Bull, Lochwinnoch. BEST PLACE FOR DINNER? I’m waiting on a vegan place to start up, but Japan Street Food, Paisley, does vegan bento boxes.
I tried in Jingdezhen was using transfers combined with my own drawn lines. When I came home I continued to develop that.” Wendy’s work is inspired by the importance of small everyday things – “drinking tea, having a bath” – and the poetry of Keats and Tennyson. “I illustrate lines from poems and some stories I make up myself,” she explains. “The Gin Angel is one of my bestselling designs. I used to make tea angels, the idea being you’d be desperate for a cup of tea so an angel would fly in with a hot pot of tea. I developed that into coffee angels and one day I thought there has to be a gin angel. Women about my age seem to like it, because gin has just gone mad in popularity in the last few years.” Another one of her most popular designs is The Pudding Girl. “She’s really worried she’s going to miss out on pudding from not having a spoon,” says Wendy, “so she sews many pockets into her skirt and in each pocket she puts a pudding spoon. So she’s quite content. It sounds quite mad!” You can peruse and purchase Wendy’s work via wendykershaw.rhizomatics.org.uk. Follow her on Instagram: wendykershawceramics. MILL 27
FEATURES
s l i a t e D
DEVIL’S IN THE
An exclusive Mill-curated shoot from West College Scotland HND photography students plus Lixie and Finishing Touches.
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FEATURES
Jumpsuit, £28, sandals, £24, both at Lixie. Photo by Bethenay McBride. MILL 29
FEATURES
Dress, £40, Lixie. Necklace, £13.99, Finishing Touches. Photo by Alastair Hendrie. 30 MILL
Jeans, £32, T-shirt, £16, blazer, £36, all at Lixie. Photos by Alastair Hendrie.
FASHION
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Dress, £24, Lixie. Photo by Alastair Hendrie.
FASHION
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FEATURES
Skirt, £30, T-shirt, £20, both at Lixie. Photo by Bethenay McBride. MILL 33
WHERE TO BUY
LIXIE 14 New Street, Paisley PA1 1XY, 0141 840 2173, lixie.co.uk
FINISHING TOUCHES 7 Johnston Street, Paisley PA1 1XQ 0141 561 7171, Facebook: finishingtouchespaisley
Culottes, £16, top, £28, both at Lixie. Photo by Bethenay McBride.
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Photographers: Alastair Hendrie and Bethenay McBride. Model: Amber Conway. Locations: West College Scotland, Paisley Campus and The Hub at Mile End Mill, Abbey Mill Business Centre. Huge thanks to Scott Cadenhead, Robert Tabor and all the students involved in this project for making this possible.
FASHION
FEATURES
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
What the Freck! Nothing says summer like a face full of freckles. If you’re not naturally blessed, go with the faux and get dotting. Use a mix of two or three colours; sharpened brow or eye pencils work a treat. Simply dot randomly around the nose and cheeks and pat gently to set.
AWW, PETAL And the prize for the prettiest product of the season goes to Darphin and its Petal Infusion Lip and Cheek Tint (£25). These sheer silky balms, with real flower petals, react with your skin’s pH to transform it into a unique buildable self-adjusting colour with rosy flush.
PSST… Don’t tell anyone but we reckon Body Shop’s Honey Bronze Collection is as good as, if not better than, some of its premium priced competition including the much lauded brand from a certain Bajan pop princess. Just saying.
BEAUTY Summer breeze expertise from Susie Cormack Bruce.
BARE FACED CHEAT Just when we thought Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue base couldn’t get any better, it appears in a stick formula. It gives the same super natural coverage as the original but the stick packaging makes it easier to apply on the go. It’s truly travel friendly. £29.
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NIGHT MUSC If you’re looking for a summer scent as hot as a Love Island cabana, check out Narciso Rodriguez’s new Oud Musc. Spicy, musky and seriously sensual, it’s hedonism in a bottle. From £110 for 100ml.
HAIR
expert The owner of James Martin Hairdressing in Paisley was voted Scotland’s best hair extentionist of 2018. Follow his expert guide to tonsorial perfection. How did you start? I left school at 15 with few qualifications and was told by my peers I wouldn’t amount to much. Since then I have never stopped training and developing my skills. My salon is flourishing seven years on. What’s the most asked-for celebrity look? A lot of hair inspiration comes from reality TV shows like Geordie Shore and TOWIE.
The Whole Tooth Greenlaw Dental Care is a family-run practice that’s been open wide for business for over 60 years. Richard Alexander BDS tells us what’s on offer.
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e originally bought the practice from a couple of older dentists who were retiring, one of whom is my wife and business partner Eilidh’s dad. We’ve taken it forward and modernised it, expanding it from being three dentists up to five. We bought the flat next door to the business, so we’ve doubled in size. We also offer different services for patients, to give them the opportunity to have anything they need done here instead of being sent elsewhere. For example, we now offer cosmetic braces to improve people’s smiles. Also, Eilidh does Botox and fillers and I do implants if you have any teeth missing. Patients can enjoy high quality work in a friendly and relaxed environment. We’re part of Childsmile, which is an NHS scheme to do with getting kids and families in at a young age to prevent issues with their teeth. Also, we’ve got IV [intravenous] sedation, which is a technique for relaxing adult patients who are particularly anxious. Greenlaw Dental Care, 25 Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3QY. 0141 889 3160. greenlawdentalcare.co.uk.
What’s your go-to product? Neal & Wolf Elevate Volumising Lotion, for that luscious, thick, bouncy hair look. Apply to damp hair before blow-drying with a large round brush to achieve the ultimate volume. Neal & Wolf house a range of products that not only work, but also combine luxury and affordability. My personal favourite is the Harmony Shampoo & Conditioner, which is perfect for hair that needs a little TLC. Neal & Wolf products are available to purchase at the James Martin salon. One thing you’d advise all clients to do? Our hair is something we should be investing in a lot more. By using certain key products, whether it’s a good quality shampoo and conditioner or a really good blow-drying product, it will make the world of difference and give your hair that “just stepped out of the salon” feel. In terms of hair trends, which is your favourite for summer 2019? I absolutely love the beachy, loose waves, lived-in look. It’s a super easy style to achieve and can be dressed up with plaits, headbands or scarfs. Perfect for festivals too. James Martin Hairdressing, 74 Causeyside Street, Paisley, PA1 1YP. 0141 237 2234. jamesmartinhair.co.uk. MILL 37
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Fitter & Happier
A local entrepreneur has recently brought an innovative weight training device to market.
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he Arcufit bar is a unique handheld gizmo designed to increase upper body strength without the hassle and discomfort of lifting traditional weights. It’s the brainchild of architect David McNaughton. How did you come to invent the Arcufit bar? I was about 45 when I read an article about muscle wastage. Any time after the age of 30 you lose muscle mass, that’s unless you’re active and doing some sort of training. So I started training with kettle bells, and simply what happened was that I hit myself on the head with one. And that was that. So I thought to myself, there must be something on the marketplace that’s ergonomically designed that I can put weights on, something much safer that I can move freely around my body. 38 MILL
But there wasn’t? No, so in the morning I drew a wee sketch on my iPad. I then made a model of it in the garage with copper pipe and put a couple of sandbags on it. The concept grew from there. I then became obsessed with three-dimensional movement, the idea of being able to move in any direction in order to rebuild your muscular structure. And how did it become a reality? We spoke to Scottish Enterprise who were brilliant, and they offered certain grants. We got an assessment and applied for a patent, so it’s going through that process. It takes somewhere between three and six years to get a patent, but it’s protected under the Paris Convention. Once you publish your patent then that’s you effectively covered.
People can train with the bar at the classes you run, but when will it become commercially available? Probably this year. We’ll also be expanding our classes into other areas. The concept of the bar is it’s a home product, the classes came about to raise awareness. It’s a big learning curve, finding out how to pitch it to people. You need a bit of authenticity in a world that’s very cynical, you need quite a bit of knowledge and experience. We’ve kind of completed that process now and we have a genuine product that can make a massive difference to people’s lives. Find out more about the bar at arcufit. com. Classes are held every Tuesday at 7.30pm in the Infusion Dance Studio, 28 High Street, Paisley, PA1 2BZ.
THOMSON HEATING
Renfrewshire's award-winning plumbing and heating company
We are a local gas and central heating company who offer a bespoke service from start to finish. We pride ourselves in our passion for customer satisfaction and high quality professional workmanship. We are fully gas safe registered and Worcester Bosch accredited platinum installers. Our services • Gas boiler replacements with a 10 year guarantee • Central heating installations • Servicing • Breakdown and fault finding • System power flush • Landlord gas safety inspections
T 0141 390 6946
W www.thomsonheatinggroup.co.uk E hello@thomsonheatinggroup.co.uk Follow us on Facebook: thomsonheating
OUTDOORS
Millboard decking
JW GRANT
Transform your outdoor space with these great ideas from JW Grant.
LIVE OUTDOORS JW Grant can supply everything required to make the most of your garden this summer. We stock an extensive range of paving, walling, decking, fencing, block paving and much more. Quality is assured as we source from only trusted suppliers such as Bradstone, Tobermore, Natural Paving, Millboard, Grono, Rolawn and Grange. DISTINCTIVE Our range includes premium products such as riven, polished and textured natural sandstone paving, vitrified and porcelain paving, natural sandstone walling, timber decking, sleepers and a range of traditional and contemporary fence panels. We also offer screened topsoil, compost and bark chippings, and an extensive range of the most stunning decorative aggregates. 40 MILL
LOW MAINTENANCE We stock the latest trends in landscaping products, including our own brand premium artificial lawn in 26mm, 30mm and 40mm and all the accessories you’ll need to install it. CREATE AN OUTDOOR DREAM We are a key stockist of Millboard decking and have one of the largest display areas in the UK, located at our Paisley branch. Millboard decking is inspired by the beauty of nature but built to outperform it. Unlike conventional composite decking, it is moulded from selected timbers and hand-coloured in authentic tones. As a result, it looks uncannily like real wood, but doesn’t rot, retains high slipresistance even when wet, and requires little maintenance other than a simple wipe clean. Millboard creates spaces where people love to live outdoors.
TRANSFORMING OUTDOOR SPACES We stock Gronofence, which is the most realistic and hardwearing range of eco-friendly composite fencing products available on the market today. Easy to install and low maintenance, it’s perfect for any garden. It doesn’t warp, splinter or rot, which saves both time and money. Take a look at our own installation video: facebook.com/jwgrant. FINISHING TOUCHES Illuminate your garden, fencing, porch or flowerbeds with our latest range of stylish outdoor lighting. For added durability the St Ives range of hot dipped galvanised drive/path lights are fully weatherproof even in coastal locations. Create a beautiful garden space with our outdoor essentials, including fire pits and chimineas. Your outdoor space should be a place to relax while enjoy your garden in the sun. Our collection of all-weather rattan sofa sets are stunning. For ultimate portability our metal bistro sets can be perfectly placed on a patio or decking. TO YOUR DOOR We offer a fast, efficient delivery service straight to your home. We also offer tool and plant hire to get the job done. JW Grant, 66 Love Street, Paisley, PA3 2EH. 0141 887 4252. jwgrant.co.uk. MILL 41
PROPERTY
MARKET WATCH Spruce up your property with some useful advice from Ainslie Henderson from Caledonia Bureau. Believe it or not, summer has arrived and, as we know, people like to get out and about to enjoy the lighter nights. When good weather does decide to make an appearance it’s not unusual to see people out walking the dog, exercising or just enjoying a leisurely stroll about town. This is when ‘Kerb Appeal’ has its biggest impact. We advise our sellers/ landlords to take advantage of the extra attention summer nights might bring to their property with these top tips. Garden - We certainly wouldn’t advise planting new flowers, but instead take care of what is already there, i.e. de-weeding and maintaining the garden grounds. People are put off by gardens that look out of control. Paths/Driveway - If your driveway or path is looking dull and/or dirty, a quick wash and brush can make the world of difference to brighten up the exterior of your property. Although not your responsibility it is always beneficial to clear any litter or mess from the pavement in front of your property as well. Windows - Ensure your windows are clean as this will ensure the buyer or tenant knows you take care of the property from the inside to the out. Sparkling windows can give a property a new lease of life. For Sale/To Let Board - The Estate/Letting Agent representing you is an extension of yourself, so make sure the agent has a clean and, most importantly, upright board to catch any new admirers’ attention.
PROPERTY Dust the Facts Improve your home and health with these words of wisdom from Alexandra Haringman from Acorn Carpet Cleaning. A professional clean can eliminate stains, extend the life of your carpet and enhance the overall appearance of a room – but did you know that clean carpets are also important for your health? Here are three hidden health benefits of getting your carpets cleaned… GOODBYE DUST MITES AND ALLERGENS Even though they are invisible to the human eye, dust mites can still cause problems. Along with other pollutants (e.g. dust, pet dander and insect allergens), waste from mites becomes trapped inside your carpets. Regular exposure to these pollutants is not good for anyone’s respiratory health, but people with respiratory conditions or allergies are likely to be affected more than most. REMOVE MOULD AND BACTERIA Spillages, leaks and soil from the bottom of your shoes are all ways mould and bacteria can begin to grow in your carpets. A professional clean is the most effective way to remove mould and bacteria from your carpet. This includes a drying process which removes moisture and prevents future growth. Households with young children whose immune systems have not yet developed will benefit from this.
When selling or renting it is incredibly important to create a great first impression. Buyers and tenants alike will want to know the property has been well looked after. For any further ideas or tips don’t hesitate to get in touch!
SMELL TO GET WELL Vacuuming your home will not eliminate unpleasant odours – only the effective removal of dirt and bacteria will leave your carpet smelling fresh. A professional clean will also improve the overall quality of the air inside your home, helping you to breathe easier and sleep better. It is not uncommon to find that recently cleaned carpets have an uplifting effect on your mood!
Contact Ainslie at Caledonia Bureau Estate & Letting Agents, 25-29 Causeyside Street, Paisley, PA1 1UL. 0141 648 0888. caledoniaproperty.co.uk.
Acorn Carpet Cleaning, Suite 110, Old Embroidery Mill, Abbey Mill Business Centre, Paisley, PA1 1TJ. 0141 212 0212. acorncarpetcleaning.co.uk.
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Office27 Serviced offices and suites
YARD TO LET Kilncroft Mews
Neilston Road, Paisley With hardstanding, electricity, water
CALL 0141 886 5020 FOR MORE DETAILS
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ituated in the heart of Paisley, 25-29 Causeyside Street, Office27 offers to the market newly formed serviced office suites of up to 1,800 sq.ft on a fully inclusive basis. We provide nurture space for Paisley’s entrepreneurs and established businesses, giving them the chance to operate and work from a prestigious building in a town centre address. In addition to this the property can offer up to 9,000 sq.ft of excellent high quality office space on conventional terms, with the added advantage of parking for up to 35 cars. The space is open plan, with male and female toilets, kitchens and showers. The unique stature of the building combines open plan flexible work space with original features synonymous with a building of its age and style. For further details contact letting agent Greg Dykes on 07447 983400. office27.co.uk
27 Causeyside St, Paisley. PA1 1UL Tel: 0141 886 5020 Email: amk@hplpaisley.com COMMERCIAL UNITS • WORKSHOPS SERVICED OFFICES • CONTAINERS MILL 43
A Love Letter to
KILMACOLM
The journalist and broadcaster Paul English revisits his idyllic childhood home. National Cycle Route 75, photo by Little Studio Photography
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didn’t properly appreciate it until long after I’d left. The discovery of R.J. Price’s 2002 short story collection, A Boy In Summer, and its references to a Renfrewshire coming of age, helped me realise. Now when I return to Kilmacolm, which I do regularly to see my parents, it’s with a gratitude for its beauty I couldn’t fully possess as a child. I vary the drive, meandering through country lanes off Bishopton Road, passing Finlaystone Estate via Langbank or beckoned by the rolling hills of the Gryffe Valley on Bridge of Weir. It’s one of my favourite westerly drives. Whatever my approach, the road home grows fonder with the years. DUCHAL WOODS Among the many books Mrs Smith, my P5 teacher at Kilmacolm Primary, introduced us to in the 1980s was The Animals of Farthing Wood. The wildlife described in Colin Dann’s children’s series was right outside our window. The school looks on to one of the village’s most popular assets, known in our house simply as The Duchal - part of the larger Duchal Estate, which includes ruins of the 13th Century Duchal Castle, visited by King James IV in the 1400s, and many a stravaiger since. This mature woodland 44 MILL
of meandering bridle paths, rivers and bridges was the location of many a lost childhood afternoon. If Stand By Me had been set in Scotland, it would have been here and starred me and my mates. Folk come from all around to walk here. I still do, too. Home to Pinewood Trout Fishery. Off Lochwinnoch Road, PA13 4RS NATIONAL CYCLE ROUTE 75 A sunny summer’s morning in the early 1990s. Four 14-year-olds, a BMX, a Grifter, two Raleigh Racers, and a new way to somewhere else. The trains were stopped in Kilmacolm in the early 1980s, so my generation depended on buses to broaden our social perspective. The railway line joined the National Cycle Network and a ride to Lochwinnoch and back felt like we’d gone ‘round the country. ‘The bike track’ as we knew it, provided a first taste of horizons broadened, on our own terms. Sculptor David Kemp’s artworks playfully punctuate the route. His metallic Roman Legion and steampunk structure Brick Traction references the nearby Roman remains and the track’s railroad history. Someday an artist might compose a piece remembering the present era when idiotic dog walkers left bags of poo in the trees … Off Lochwinnoch Road, PA13 4DW
FEATURES
Cross Cafe
Cairn
Wild Rose
Photo by Bill Crookston
Kilmacolm Confidential Cairn - There’s a real buzz about this tasteful café, one of the most popular in Kilmacolm. It boasts a great atmosphere, prompt, friendly service and a healthy menu offering freshly made food and a small but perfectly formed array of delicious coffees, teas, wines, beers and soft drinks. 1 Drumpellier Place, PA13 4HE. Wild Rose - This delightful boutique florist is a fragrant work of art in itself. Not only is it liberally stocked with a colourful range of fresh flowers, it’s also staffed by a helpful team of experienced florists who will meet your specific needs. Blooming marvellous. 1 Ardgowan Place, PA13 4AA.
Duchall Castle remains, photo by Thomas Graham, Digitalpict.com
CROSS CAFÉ In the 1980s, we had two family-run Italian ice cream shops. And, boy, did they do well from us. Not a single penny grudged, mind. Pieri’s, on Lochwinnoch Road, is now a slick but cosy restaurant whose ice-cream recipe has to be tasted to be believed. The Cross Café, meanwhile, has retained its authentic charm, with countless jars of sweeties adorning old wooden shelves. Owners, the ever-present Janetta sisters, inherited the café, which dates back to the early 1900s, from their parents. The Cross Café is still a fine choice for a ‘99, and Alda and Joanna have been dispensing homespun wisdom, quarters of cola cubes and milky coffees since the days when Starbucks was a twinkle in Seattle’s eye. Port Glasgow Road, PA13 4ET GLEN MOSS As a member of the 42nd Greenock and District 1st Kilmacolm Scouts, I enjoyed the thrill of a ‘midnight hike’ in what’s known locally as ‘The Moss’. This 20 acre Site of Special Scientific Interest
managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust is recognised for its rare wetland plants, abundant dragonflies and birds including cuckoo, willow warbler and yellow hammer. Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s treasure, Windyhill, is just a short walk from The Moss. The cemetery gatehouse is another of his works, but both are private residences. Off Gowkhouse Road, PA13 4DH BIRKMYRE PARK The Birkmyre dynasty was a powerful force in industrial Scotland. Owners of the Gourock Ropeworks in Port Glasgow – a major international player in the manufacture of maritime equipment – they were generous benefactors. Generations of Kilmacolmics have played sports in the park the family donated to the village. After recent renovation, the park pavilion is now home to a gym and café, the adjacent public shelter a home to a million teenage memories. Broomknowe Road, PA13 4JA Follow Paul on Twitter at @PaulEnglishhack. MILL 45
FEATURES
St Columba’s School One of Scotland’s highest achieving schools can be found in Kilmacolm. Words by Head of Development, Marketing and Admissions, Roberta Bianchini.
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t Columba’s School is very much a part of the village. In fact, the school has been on its current site since 1897. Now housing the Senior School, the original building is an impressive red sandstone mansion which proudly sits on the corner of Duchal Road and Lyle Road. Since then, the school has grown and diversified; 54 girls entered the school that first year and, almost 122 years later, we are a co-educational establishment with over 650 pupils aged three to 18. In the same year that St Columba’s opened its doors, Adam Birkmyre, a local tradesman and philanthropist, was donating Birkmyre Park to the community. Some thirty years later, the school would acquire Mr Birkmyre’s house, Shalott, a stunning gothic building on Knockbuckle Road, which now forms part of our charming Junior School. It is clear to see that we are very much a part of Kilmacolm’s history - and its future! St Columba’s pupils contribute to the wider community in myriad ways, from our Early Years children making friends with the residents of Campbell Snowdon House Care Home (Quarrier’s Village) to our award-winning Pipe Band performing on gala days in and around Kilmacolm. Our pupils use the beautiful nature reserve at Glen Moss as the natural environment for the John Muir Award, and D of E expeditions take place in the Clyde Muirshiel National Park. By participating locally, we teach our
pupils to contribute globally, helping them to become well-rounded citizens of the world. As you would expect, our ethos of compassion and integrity, tolerance and acceptance, aspiration and selfbelief are instilled in every young Columban. Our pupils are known, not just by name, but by their interests, their strengths, their achievements and their aspirations. We are able to tailor the curriculum and learning journey to suit each child’s individual needs, to help them develop their unique talents and reach their full potential. Surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, Kilmacolm is idyllic and greatly enriches our pupils' outdoor experience – we have even started growing our own fruit and vegetables on site! The setting is as beautiful as it is safe and it offers an excellent learning environment in which young minds can flourish. Equally, our proximity to Glasgow affords pupils countless opportunities to supplement their learning thanks to the many educational, literary, artistic and theatrical treasures the city has to offer. Visit St Columba’s today by contacting Admissions Registrar, Moira McWhirter, via admissions@st-columbas.org. Find out more about the school at st-columbas.org.
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Livin’ a Vida Lisbon Our resident globetrotter David Walsh takes a busy tram ride through Portugal’s vibrant capital city.
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TRAVEL
©Visit Lisbon Tourist Board
T
he screech and scrape of metal heralds the arrival of a white and canary yellow tram, as it rears into view through the narrowest of gaps between crumbling old buildings. This 90-year-old relic trundles towards us beneath wrought iron lanterns and balconies, a ubiquitous feature in the Moorish district of Alfama, while washing lines droop overhead between pastel-shaded apartment buildings clad in vivid azulejo ceramic tiles. In any other city, these creaking antiques would be housed in a museum. But as one of the oldest cities in the world – predating even Rome by hundreds of years – Lisbon is not just any other city. While resorts along the Algarve coast – with its golf courses and pristine beaches – have long been a mainstay for visitors, Portugal's capital is the hottest ticket in Europe for a city break in the sun just now. Standing at the Portas do Sol viewpoint, we’re lucky to be here admiring the city at all. A deadly earthquake in 1755 nearly wiped Lisbon off the map. Alfama - with its twisting labyrinths of alleyways, staircases and cobbled streets – emerged from the carnage relatively unscathed. As we look out over the river Tejo and the crest of terracotta rooftops, bell towers and white-washed buildings, you get a sense of time stopped in its tracks. It is perhaps fitting, then, that these 1930s trams are still workhorses of the city's public transport system, taking locals and tourists alike through the rambling, narrow streets of the city and up and down its many hills. From Portas do Sol, we battle our way through the tourists for a place on the number 28 tram for its 40-minute circuit of the city centre, shunting through one picturesque neighbourhood after another. Known as “the city of seven hills,” you are never far away from a viewpoint – or miradouro – in Lisbon, each one affording a different perspective from which to fall for the city all over again. Most have cafés or bars if you want to linger for a sundowner as the city glows in the twilight, which we do at the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara in Bairro Alto. While it is enjoying its day in the sun just now, Lisbon has always been an important city. During the Second World War, for
Pasteis de Belém, ©Visit Lisbon Tourist Board
instance, it was a hotbed of spies and intrigue. In centuries past, it was the starting point for explorers who circumnavigated the globe in search of exotic new lands during the Age of Discovery. In the same spirit of curiosity, we start our second and last full day by catching a tram out west to the riverside suburb of Belém. Here, Portugal’s nautical endeavours are celebrated with a monolith on the promenade dedicated to fearless 15th and 16th century seafarers such as Vasco de Gama and Magellan. Further down the promenade is the Torre de Belém. Built during this golden era, the chess piece-like tower has become an icon of Lisbon and its intrinsic connection to the sea beyond. Belém is also where we find the best pastéis de nata in the capital. As pastelarias go, MILL 49
TRAVEL
Commerce Square
the Pasteis de Belém bakery is the definitive experience. Just one bite of the still-warm crumbly pastries with their gooey custard filling is incentive enough for us to jostle our way through the throngs of baying tourists for a table. Its famous pastries aside, Lisbon’s culinary credentials are not to be sniffed at. There are a plethora of fine restaurants in the city, but we opt for the Time Out Market for dinner on our return from Belém. Measuring over ten thousand square feet, the indoor food court is crammed with several restaurants plating up traditional Portuguese dishes alongside international favourites. Sated by a bowl of arroz de pato (a kind of traditional duck risotto) 50 MILL
and a glass of Tempranillo, we leave eager to experience even more of Lisbon, an appetite that will have to go unsatisfied until our next visit. GETTING THERE Both easyJet (easyjet.com) and Ryanair (ryanair.com) fly direct from Edinburgh to Lisbon with prices starting from £36 each way. WHERE TO STAY Close to Castelo de São Jorge, Hotel Convento do Salvador (conventosalvador.pt) in Alfama is a modern hotel with artistic flair set in a renovated former convent. A standard double room from €86 a night (£76) in low season or €110 (£96) in peak season.
LISBON WITH KIDS
The Portuguese are very familyorientated and it really shows when travelling with children. From insisting that you cut the queue at attractions to their interactions with us in restaurants, Lisboetas made travelling with our infant daughter extremely easy. One of the only downsides are the city’s cobbles which proved too much for our pushchair. Fortunately, under-fours travel free on all public transport. When it comes to day-to-day activities, one sure-fire hit is a visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa, Europe’s second largest aquarium. Worthy of its hype, it houses a staggering 8,000 species, including Pacific sea otters and Magellanic penguins. The impressive central tank is home to stingrays, sand tiger sharks and more.
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FEATURES
Shaker
MAKAR Brian Whittingham is the recently-appointed Renfrewshire Makar. Peter Ross accompanied him on a poetic perambulation. 52 MILL
FEATURES
B
unnet pulled low against the wind off the water, his one good ear alert for the passing muse, Brian Whittingham, shipbuilder turned poet, leads the way along the riverbank to a boundary of his realm. We pass oystercatchers, joggers and dumped shopping trolleys clarted thick with mud. “This,” he says, “is a corner of Renfrewshire you wouldn’t normally visit.” Whittingham, who is 68, is the Renfrewshire Makar, a sort of poet laureate for this part of Scotland. He was appointed in December 2018 and will hold the post for three years. He sees himself as a “missionary” – taking poetry into schools, to the pipe band championships, lo even unto St Mirren Park, where he hopes to persuade the chief executive that a poet-in-residence would be a good thing for the football club. “Poetry is perceived to be elitist, not accessible to the ordinary working person,” he says. He hopes to prove otherwise. He is also expected to write around half a dozen poems each year, marking moments of significance in the area, and has made a start with a very moving piece, Cheering And Stomping, to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Paisley’s Glen Cinema disaster in which 71 children died. We are following the White Cart to its confluence with the Clyde. It is fun to notice a poet notice. As we walk, the lyrical cogs are birling in his brain. Across the river, mounted on the opposite bank, there is a metal sculpture of a hawk, russet with rust. Congregated at the foot of the plinth are several cormorants, inky wings held out to dry. “You wonder,” says Whittingham, “if all these birds have come to worship their god.” He is the author of ten poetry collections including the excellent Bunnets and Bowlers, inspired by his years at the John Brown shipyard in Clydebank. He left school at 14, joined as an office boy, served an apprenticeship, and later worked as a plater. He was part of the crew who built the QE2. His instinct is to resist any attempts to romanticise shipbuilding. Questions about his “deep love” for the yards are batted back. It was a hard life, he insists, which cost him a good deal of his hearing. Yes, there were amazing characters – among them one noted lothario known as “the knicker knocker
from Duntocher” – but some awful swine, too. “I was quite terrified of some of the men I worked with, particularly when they were drunk.” There was one journeyman in particular: “He used to throw hammers at Catholics. This is the person who was supposedly teaching you your trade.” Born and raised in Glasgow, it was while living in Renfrew that Whittingham began to write. He joined the Paisley Writers Group, which met at the Central Library, and was introduced to established talents including James Kelman and Agnes Owens. “It totally changed my life” Is there an issue, does he think, with a Weegie rather than a Buddy being the Renfrewshire Makar? A shake of the head: “We’re all citizens of the world, aren’t we?” Before long, we arrive at our destination: the meeting of the Cart and the Clyde. Across the water lies West Dunbartonshire, which must get by without an official poet of its own. Whittingham points out the old slipway where – on September 20th, 1967 – the QE2 launched. He watched it from inside John Brown’s, itself long gone. Sometimes he climbs to the top of the Titan Crane and, looking down, can still see the phantom shipyard, a Clydeside ghost. We turn and walk back. Up ahead, on the riverbank, an old couple are hunkered about some business. They stand as we pass. Whittingham says hello: “Have youse lost somethin’?” “No, no,” says the man, who is holding a rake. “Recovering something.” The woman smiles from within her headscarf. “We hope that we’re rescuin’ a rare plant.” “Oh, right,” says Whittingham. “What plant’s that then?” “Grass,” says the woman. Just grass. They are picking up empty bottles and raking away driftwood in the hope of exposing the riverbank to the light, encouraging growth. At the side of the brown water, they would like to see green. Here, amid the mud and tidal trash, a small moment, the poetry of the everyday. “Do youse walk up and down here a lot?” Whittingham asks. “Oh aye,” says the woman. “Long may it last.”
“
POETRY IS PERCEIVED TO BE ELITIST, NOT ACCESSIBLE TO THE ORDINARY WORKING PERSON
Read a brand new poem by Brian, one inspired by his riverside stroll with Peter, overleaf
MILL 53
FEATURES
A Renfrewshire
Ramble Along the path beside the river Cart I saunter down 50 years of memory, you keeping me company. We pass the remains of Tam Mulgrew’s golf range the fairway overgrown with gnarled bushes, its meshed perimeter fence hanging like abandoned cobwebs. These days, I can’t hear, the ‘ting ting ting’ of approaching cyclists warning me I’m in the way though the periodic drone of jet engines still manage to register overhead. A Dali style, metal head sculpture, topping a long abandoned navigation post watches us head towards the Clyde. On the Normanday’s tenth green, a bevvy of silver-haired ladies wearing purple jackets guiding their golf-carts as if shopping trollys. These days I can’t see the opposite bank clearly where Herons and Cormorants do their thing gliding and sploosh-landing. I only know this because your young eyes can see clearly … recognise the breeds Then onward to where the Cart merges with the Clyde. My memory goes into overdrive and I can see and hear the past, crystal clear.
Find out more about your Makar at brianwhittingham.co.uk. 54 MILL
I point out to you the toes of the slipways on the opposite bank still dipping into the river where ocean going liners lost their stocks and a 17 year old apprentice looking on at the Q4 with its mounds of drag chain rumbling and their rust clouds disturbing their seasidey air. We turn at the small green lighthouse, retrace our steps. And come across an older couple who stoop as if looking for something amongst the debris washed up on the riverbank. When I enquire if they have lost something the lady answers, ‘We’ve discovered an exotic plant we are trying to save.’ and when I ask her to show me she points down to young fresh blades of grass. She explains that they don’t get a chance to flourish because of the trash the tide brings in. So, it seems, young grass, is her, ‘exotic plant’. I tell her ‘Good job.’ And we leave them to it making our way to our own destinations.
Brian Whittingham
FEATURES
SUMMER
IN SPACE
Free Summer In Space Entertainment Powering the Future Exhibits and Space Activities
THE PIAZZA SHOPPING CENTRE
Friday 5th July, Friday 19th July & Friday 2nd August 12 noon - 4pm
www.piazzapaisley.co.uk MILL 55
MUSIC
Saddle up and ride your pony with Paul Whitelaw’s guide to the best summer gigs.
THE SUGARHILL GANG
GOSSIP The Standing in the Way of Control hit-makers celebrate their 20th anniversary this year. They actually split, seemingly for good, in 2016, when charismatic singer Beth Ditto decided to spend more time on her solo career and successful clothing line. Nothing ever really dies in the marble mausoleum of pop, of course, so here they are again with more of their simply irresistible soul-powered punk-disco boogaloo. SWG3, Glasgow, 19 July
40 years ago, three young men from Englewood, New Jersey changed the face of popular culture forever when they released Rapper’s Delight, the first rap single to break the top 40 (it got to number three in the UK). This commemorative tour features an impressive all-star line-up including the surviving original Gang members plus Grandmaster Melle Mel and Scorpio from fellow hip hop pioneers the Furious Five. The Classic Grand, Glasgow, 19 July
TEENAGE FANCLUB There aren’t many bands who could survive the departure of a key songwriter, but there aren’t many bands who could continue with two other great songwriters still within their ranks. Gerry Love has retired from action, but Norman Blake and Raymond McGinley have no intention of hanging up their jangling spurs quite yet. He’ll be missed, of course, but the Fannies still have a rich boutique of bittersweet power-pop classics to fall back on. Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, 30 July
BURT BACHARACH One of the greatest popular songwriters of the 20th century, Burt Bacharach is a bona fide musical genius. Extravagant praise? Not when you consider the sheer number of indelible standards he’s written over the years, often in collaboration with lyricist Hal David, and the unique sophistication of his craft. Bacharach’s songs are melodically accessible, emotionally resonant yet formally complex. Bask in his luxurious catalogue at this intimate outdoor show. Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, 26 July 56 MILL
MUSIC
PAIS LEY U NDERG ROU ND
Photo by Gianluca Bernacchi
Linzi Clark and Andrew Quinn, aka D R I F T, combine folk and synthwave electronica to haunting effect. Linzi spills the beans.
FATHER JOHN MISTY The artist formerly known as J. Tillman is nothing if not prolific. Since 2003 he’s released 12 solo albums and another as a member of Fleet Foxes. Tillman’s seemingly unfettered work rate belies an almost traditional knack for melodic song-craft. His music is ‘quirky’, certainly, but some of it wouldn’t sound out of place on ‘70s FM radio. Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, 2 August
PLAYGROUND FESTIVAL
How did you two meet? I was on Paisley 2021: The Album doing some of my solo work and I needed a band. Through a mutual friend I met Andrew and he played drums for me, then we performed together at the Spree festival. We quickly realised that we have very similar influences. Andrew is really easy to get on with, so I basically sent a really cringe message asking if he would be up for collaborating on a more electronic sound for my solo work. And he said yes!
Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in a park in Giffnock. This brand new boutique festival is headlined by soul supernova Lauryn Hill (above), electro-pop faves Hot Chip and, playing their only Scottish show of 2019, derriere-shaking dance duo Groove Armada. The bill also includes neo-psychedelic Scottish band Django Django and Swedish electronic outfit Little Dragon. Rouken Glen Park, Giffnock, 2, 3 and 4 August
Your new single The Isle Of is beautiful. What can you tell us about it? Andrew came up with the music, then we had to get the lyrics together. I’d been to the Isle of Arran for the first time and I loved the place. I decided that the summery sound of the music would work well with my experience. Lyrically it’s about the innocence of falling in love and being scared about what that means. There always seems to be themes in my songwriting about growing up – I’m at that age I guess, the transition from being a young person to being an adult. You’re scared of the unknown but also excited.
Soulful, sad and joyous, these beloved chamber-pop sensations are one of the best Glasgow bands of the last ten years. Make no mistake, singer Tracyanne Campbell possesses one of the most affecting set of pipes in modern pop. They took a sabbatical in 2015 following the tragic, untimely death of bandmate Carey Lander; these ‘comeback’ gigs will doubtless provide a fitting tribute. Saint Luke’s, Glasgow, 5 and 6 August
CAMERA OBSCURA
Any plans for an album? We’ve got plenty of stuff, but because we’re a relatively new band we’re trying to discover what our sound is going to be. We want to keep releasing singles and writing music rather than rushing to release an album. Drift away at facebook.com/driftband4 MILL 57
FOR THE RECORD
Photo by Tommy Ga Ken Wan
MUSIC
Stuart Braithwaite from Mogwai on what he’s currently listening to.
KATHRYN JOSEPH Following on from her performance at the Paisley Takeover fest in March (see Mill #4), this hugely gifted singer-songwriter returns to the town for a not-to-be-missed concert. Joseph is an intense performer who demands your undivided attention. Seated behind her piano with minimal accompaniment, she delivers deeply personal songs in a haunting, dead of night vibrato. The effect is utterly bedazzling. Paisley Arts Centre, 10 August Love in the Time of Lexapro EP by Oneohtrix Point Never He’s an electronic artist and this has got a bit of acoustic stuff on it. It’s quite weird but also really musical. He’s got the person who did Ecco the Dolphin for the Mega Drive to do the cover, so it has a slightly New Age, sci-fi sort of feel. pointnever.com Double Negative by Low I listen to this an awful lot, it’s probably my favourite record of last year. It’s really ahead of its time, it’s pretty glitchy, really bonkers and beautiful. chairkickers.com
THE CURE + MOGWAI + THE TWILIGHT SAD Age shall not wither these post-punk/industrial rock/ indie-pop deities, who since 1979 have provided a soundtrack for the lives of millions of pale and interesting fans. Support comes from Glasgow’s Mogwai (see Stuart Braithwaite’s record picks on the right). Post-rockers extraordinaire, they’re one of planet Earth’s most punishingly loud and powerful live bands. Joining them on the bill are Rock Action label-mates The Twilight Sad. Bellahouston Park, Glasgow, 16 August 58 MILL
Damn by Kendrick Lamar It’s an amazing album, so imaginative. It gives you a real sense of him as a person, the music is really interesting. He’s such a great rapper, really kind of peerless at the moment. kendricklamar.com Follow Stuart on Twitter at @plasmatron and keep tabs on his band at mogwai.co.uk.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Our editor Paul Whitelaw wades among the best new television, film and DVD releases.
TELEVISION WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS
©FX
This agreeably silly sitcom about a surrogate family of vampires is based on the cult film by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, the latter best known as one half of Flight of the Conchords. Our fanged antiheroes have been living together in a house in New York for hundreds of years, so naturally they get on each other’s nerves sometimes (not literally). They’re brought to eternal life by British comedy actors Matt Berry, Kayvan Novak and the show-stealing Natasia Demetrio, plus American comedian Mark Proksch as an ‘energy vampire’ who saps human life forces with his boring personality. BBC iPlayer, available now
FILM ONCE UPON A TIME... IN HOLLYWOOD
©United Artists
The latest epic from Quentin Tarantino is set in Hollywood in 1969 and follows a faded TV star (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his faithful stunt double (Brad Pitt) as they attempt to break into the film industry. Given the period and setting, it’s hardly surprising that the Manson murders seep into the storyline. Like most Tarantino films, it promises to be an ambitious piece involving multiple storylines and a large ensemble cast. Undoubtedly one of the most keenly-anticipated films of the year. Sony Pictures, released 26 July
©Columbia Pictures
FILM WHERE'D YOU GO, BERNADETTE
60 MILL
Acclaimed writer/director Richard Linklater (Dazed and Confused; Before Sunrise/Sunset/Midnight) returns with a mystery-fuelled comedy-drama about a cynical, agoraphobic architect (Cate Blanchett) who goes missing prior to a family holiday. It’s then up to her teenage daughter to find out what happened. Unless you’ve read the bestselling book on which it’s based, little else is known about the plot but it sounds intriguing. The combination of Linklater and Blanchett is tantalising, so what could possibly go wrong? Please, don’t blame me if it does. United Artists, released 16 August
ENTERTAINMENT
Chairman of the Board
DVD STAN & OLLIE Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly deliver outstanding performances in this deeply moving tribute to the much-loved comedy legends. It follows them towards the end of their career, when they were no longer making films and had to earn a crust by touring Britain. Writer Jeff Pope (Philomena) is guilty of manufacturing some conflict between the pair that didn’t really exist, but that’s forgivable in light of the overall glow of sincere affection. It’s the bittersweet tale of two good men, who happened to be comic geniuses, and their platonic love affair. A beautiful film. Entertainment One, available now
Hi Mill readers, I’m John Gilbert the owner of Comicrazy Coffee Bar in Paisley. We’re a comic book and board game coffee bar and we love meeting new people and introducing them to modern analogue gaming. Tabletop and role play games are huge just now, with conventions and board game cafés popping up all over the country. If you’re not familiar with these games, we’ve compiled a list of three gateway games that’ll keep you glued to the table for hours rather than your phone.
CATAN
An incredible award-winning strategy game from Mayfair Games, Catan players trade, build and settle by collecting resources and using them to build roads, settlements and cities on their way to victory. No two games are the same. Age 10+, 3-4 players, playing time 60 minutes.
TICKET TO RIDE
This is a fantastic cross country train adventure where players collect cards of various types of train cars that enable them to claim a railway route connecting cities across the United States. The player with the most railways routes wins. Age 8+, 2 - 5 players, playing time 30-60 minutes.
KING OF TOKYO
DVD THE VIRTUES Shane Meadows is one of Britain’s greatest living filmmakers. Stephen Graham is one of Britain’s greatest living actors. When they get together, the tension they create is almost unbearable. This powerful four-part drama is no exception. It follows a severely troubled middle-aged man who returns to his childhood home in the desperate hope of making sense of the trauma that’s haunted him for years. It’s an uncomfortable watch, but it needs to be. The Virtues is an important piece of work steeped in Meadows’ innate compassion for vulnerable people. Graham’s careerbest performance will break your heart. ITV Studios Home Entertainment, available now
If you like gigantic monsters, robots and aliens then King Of Tokyo might be the game for you. All of these mutant monsters happily whack each other to become the one and only King. Age 8+, 2 - 6 players, playing time 35-45 minutes. If you want to give any of these games a try, or pick up copies for yourself and family, feel free to pop by. We will be delighted to run through a quick demo game with you to get you started. Comicrazy, 45 Old Sneddon St, Paisley, PA3 2AN. 0141 237 9180. comicrazy.co.uk. MILL 61
DESSERT AT ICE MANIA If you’d rather have sticky toffee pudding instead of cheese and biscuits after your main course, then Ice Mania in Bridge of Weir is for you. Paul Dickson dives in.
O
ur editor Paul doesn’t share the same passion for afters that I do, so he was left behind and instead I took my neighbour (and Mill photographer) Alan, his son Brodie (age four) and my boy Evan (seven). We parked the car and sprinted to the front door. Yes, we were excited but it was pouring with heavy rain, hence the urgency! The parlour is bold and bright with a comfortable seating area as you walk in that leads to the counter. Opposite is a row of spacious booths. We were seated by Awais, one of the two brothers who own this establishment, which was recently named Best Dessert Parlour at Scotland’s International Community & Business Awards. The kids dived straight into the shakes. Brodie picked the Unicorn Maniastic shake (£6.50), which mixes vanilla ice cream, Millions, bubblegum and raspberry sauce, topped with marshmallows, candy and cream. Evan chose the Kinder Maniastic shake (£6.50), which was vanilla 62 MILL
ice cream, Kinder Bueno, Nutella, white chocolate sauce topped with Kinder chocolate and fresh cream. These monsters came with an extra wide straw. You can imagine the joy on the boys’ faces when Harry, the second brother, brought them over. Alan opted for the Mint O’ Licious crepe (£5.50), which was topped with Nutella, mint sauce, chocolate flakes and After Eight ice cream. He loved the contrast of the soft crepe and the crunchy chocolate. I chose the Strawberry Bliss waffle, (£6.50 , pictured). It’s an American style waffle covered in strawberries, Nutella, strawberry sauce and served with ice cream - what a combination! Harry urged us to try the Mania Bonbons (£5.45) and we offered no resistance. This was an adult choice, six bitesize bonbons beautifully presented on a skewer with hot Belgian white and milk chocolate dips, served with vanilla ice cream. They were soft and crispy and the melted chocolate dips added an extra touch of indulgence. What can I say? Awais and Harry deserve their recent award. The food is delicious, the parlour, atmosphere and service all brilliant. The kids asked to come back the following day: enough said. Ice Mania, Livery Walk, 13 Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3NN. 01505 612 323. Facebook and Instagram @icemaniabow.
Photo by Alan K. Gray
FOOD & DRINK
Sensacion caterers have been serving Paisley, Renfrewshire and surrounding areas for over 10 years and we pride ourselves on using the best produce whilst delivering prices that offer excellent value for every occasion. We cater for any event from dinner parties to weddings and everything in between. We don’t do set menus as we feel that everyone should have the freedom to choose what food they want for their event, and this has been key to our success over the years. Please get in touch today and get your personalised quote for your event
Tel: 07775 421546 sensacion-uk@hotmail.com www.sensacion.co.uk
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FOOD & DRINK
E
arly evening sun illuminated the walk to this Italian restaurant, situated just 15 minutes from Paisley Gilmour Street Station. Delightfully, as soon as we arrived I saw a happy patron sipping wine al fresco at a table beside the entrance. My dining companion was Paul, editor of this parish. Greeted cheerfully, we were guided to a cosy booth tucked away at the back. It’s always a hope, usually nestled at the back of one’s mind when eating out but never daring to be acknowledged, that you will specifically ask for no starter and get one anyway. Winningly, that happened to us tonight – we got a large plate of foccaicia (£5.95). That’s a sort of Italian second cousin to garlic bread, nothing to do with the kind that Peter Kay goes on about: it’s crispy, properly Italian and encourages rather than dampens the appetite. Caffe Royale has a menu that aims to appeal to all but with an experimental edge that avoids being flashy. Spoiled for choice, I went for the delicious Pizza Roma (£11.95), featuring fresh Italian sausage, pancetta and mozzarella. I ended up taking half of this home because, mid-munch, I was already enjoying the idea of the spicy/cold pleasure that only post-meal pizza can provide. The staff were only too happy to package it up for me. Meanwhile, Paul chose the baked gnocchi and goats’ cheese (£9.95) from the Market Menu. He described it as “little pockets of cheesy pasta heaven”.
DINNER AT CAFFE ROYALE
Stay on the scene with Italian cuisine in one of Paisley’s finest restaurants. Words by Juliette Jones.
Photo by Eoin Graham
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Photo by Lauren Mulvey
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CAFFE ROYALE HAS A MENU THAT AIMS TO APPEAL TO ALL BUT WITH AN EXPERIMENTAL EDGE THAT AVOIDS BEING FLASHY I looked around at the pleasing décor, complete with attractive lights, as I considered what to have for pudding. I was reminded of the cool ‘50s-style diner in the TV mysteryathon Twin Peaks. Sadly, Agent Cooper must’ve been dealing with things elsewhere in Paisley as there was no sign of him here. I ordered a deep, lush cherry sundae (£4.95) as a kind of tribute. If I’d been thinking straight I should’ve followed it up with a damn fine cup of coffee, but instead we savoured the pleasing house red (£3.25 for a small glass), nicely on the sweet side. A wonderfully mysterious Paisley/Italian food interface might seem unlikely, but here it is. Caffe Royale, 71 Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3PN. 0141 848 5135. cafferoyalepaisley.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 Fairfull 12A High Street, PA1 2BS 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 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 Napier Hair & Beauty 136 Neilston Road, PA2 6QH 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 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 Bernie’s Cafe Deli 1 Neva Place, Main Street, PA11 3PN
Harrods Dry Cleaners 8 Castle Terrace, PA11 3EF Ice Mania Livery Walk, 13 Main Street, PA11 3NN 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 The Erskine Bridge Hotel & Spa Riverfront, PA8 6AN HILLINGTON Ducati Glasgow 6 Mossland Drive, G52 4FA Origin Fitness 22 Earl Haig Road, G52 4JU The Experience Montrose Avenue, G52 4JR
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 HOUSTON Castle Semple Cafe Lochlip Road, PA12 4EA The Carrick Centre Coffee Shop Cucina Minucci Main Street, PA6 7HD 2 High Street, PA12 4DA The Fox & Hounds Now & Then South Street, PA6 7EN 8 Church Street, PA12 4AD The Paper Shop RSPB North Street, PA6 7HF Largs Road, PA12 4JF HOWWOOD The Boarding House QUARRIER'S VILLAGE Main Street, PA9 1BQ The Sourcery Faith Avenue, PA11 3TF INCHINNAN Three Sisters Bake The Farm at No.12 Faith Avenue, PA11 3TF 12 Brownsfield Holding, Barnsford Road, PA4 9LZ RENFREW CK Hair INTU BRAEHEAD 44 Canal Street, PA4 8QD King’s Inch Road, Glasgow, Judy McFaite Hairdressing G51 4BN 29 Dunlop Street, PA4 8PG JOHNSTONE Quality Cards & Gifts 17 Canal Street, PA4 8QE Hairpod Renfrew Leisure Centre 62A High Street, PA5 8SJ Paisley Road, PA4 8JL Johnstone Coffee Co. The Ferry Inn 71 High Street, PA5 8QG 1 Clyde Street, PA4 8SL Johnstone Community The Hair Boutique Sports Hub Beith Road, PA5 0JA 28 High Street, PA4 8QP
MILL 65
LAST WORD
PEOPLE
Paisley-born TV and radio broadcaster Ali DeFoy was, until recently, the breakfast show host on Wave FM.
You must have awoken at a punishingly early hour? Yes, between four and half past four in the morning. My life has always been a bit topsy-turvy, but working in TV and radio that’s just the way it is really. When did you decide that you wanted to be a presenter? When I was fourteen. I used to watch Lorraine Kelly, Ant and Dec and Cat Deeley and think, ‘Oh my gosh, that looks like the best job in the world!’ How did you get started? I did my work experience at PACE in Paisley. I was supposed to be going to Scottish Ballet but there was some water damage, the roof fell in, so my dad managed to get me a last minute place at PACE. Then a friend told me that the Dance School of Scotland were doing a musical theatre course. I already sang and danced and did theatre, so I auditioned for that and got accepted. And that led you to the prestigious Italia Conti Academy in London. What was that like? Mental! You’re surrounded by children of celebrities and people who think they’re celebrities when they’re not quite there yet. It’s surreal, people are walking down the street in ballet buns, leggings and leotards, with everyone else thinking, ‘What are these drama kids doing?!’ It was all a bit much for me. I’m from Paisley, I’m just a 66 MILL
Ali says.. FAVOURITE PLACE IN RENFREWSHIRE? St Mirren Football Club BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH? Papamacs in Johnstone BEST PUB? The River Inn in Houston
normal person, but the confidence they have down there is on another level. In London you have to get yourself noticed, and I’m not pushy like that. Do you enjoy your job? I absolutely love it. A lot of people think you just talk, but a lot of what I do involves listening. I get to find out about people from all walks of life, not just celebrities. I’ve covered the Open championships over the last three years and interviewed top international golfers – that’s been an amazing experience. To be around the excitement of the Open and to be able to call that my job is just unbelievable, I pinch myself. Find out more about Ali at officialalidefoy.com. She can also be found at facebook.com/ AliDeFoyOfficial/ and on Twitter at @AliDeFoy.
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