Mill issue 10 | September/October 2020 by Mill Magazine

MILL

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Culture and lifestyle for Renfrewshire The John Byrne Interview From Kashmir To Renfrewshire Paisleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Punk Heritage

Please take this magazine away with you

CONTENTS FEATURES 06 INVESTING IN US In celebration of spending local 08 BLACK HISTORY MONTH Honouring the heritage 10 WHAT IF… Social enterprise at the heart of Paisley 16 A DATE WITH MR FABULOUS Our new columnist’s travels 19 A COMMON THREAD Love Towels 21 KASHMIR TO RENFREWSHIRE The era of the Paisley shawl 28 THE SPIRIT LIVES ON A tribute to Kenny 40 LOVE LETTER TO LOCHWINNOCH By author Diarmid MacArthur 46 THE SOUND OF REVOLUTION Paisley’s punk lineage

INTERVIEWS 12 JOHN BYRNE We talk to Renfrewshire’s finest 34 PAVING THE WAY Renfrewshire Leisure’s Victoria Hollows 42 MARTIN QUINN A budding star speaks 66 THE LAST WORD Filmmaker Charlotte Daniel LIFESTYLE 24 MEN’S FASHION Josef’s mask masterclass 26 WOMEN’S FASHION Eco:Mode with Rachel Mcminn 30 BEAUTY Products and treatments 33 INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE Innovation in Ingliston 36 LA VIE BOHEME! Kike’s top tips 38 PROPERTY The latest from Corum

CULTURE 52 MUSIC, LITERATURE, POETRY, ENTERTAINMENT AND MORE 54 UNDER THE COVERS Iconic track choices 57 CRAFTER'S CORNER By Renfrewshire-based artisans FOOD & DRINK 60 LUNCH Bianco e Nero 62 FAMILY STYLE DINING Carriages Bar & Restaurant 64 DRINKS Juniper Bar & Restaurant

INTRODUCTION

A WELCOME BACK FROM THE EDITOR Where others may see it as a deterrent, some people thrive on being underestimated. When you’re overlooked, it may take a while for the recognition to come. But when it does, you can take pride in the fact that you accomplished your goals in spite of any opinions to the contrary. Whether disregarded or tarred with an often self-internalised snobbery, no one expects Renfrewshire to show its true worth in adversity. However, as a community that’s historically punched above our perceived weight, that’s precisely what’s happened. Rather than cocooning ourselves within personal sorrow, Renfrewshire’s businesses, artisans and residents strived to ensure that a lockdown wouldn’t be the death knell of the vibrant, reenergised area that we now cherish. Instead, we banded together and empowered one another to remain committed to our vision for what Renfrewshire can be. When someone needed a hand, it was routinely given. And when something remarkable was accomplished in spite of personal, financial or logistical limitations, Renfrewshire delighted in observing that our historic region’s spirit of ingenuity and enterprise remained inextinguishable. Largely constructed within quarantine, a new issue of Mill aims to be a beacon of stability, reminding you that as the storm clouds of uncertainty clear, our community’s present and future is as dazzlingly bright as ever. We can’t tell you how glad we are to be back. Please dive in and let us know your thoughts! Best wishes

Robert Blair

Published by Mill Magazine Ltd. Studio 102 Embroidery Mill, Abbey Mill Business Centre, Paisley, PA1 1TJ.

John Byrne cover photo by David Eustace

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Robert Blair, Editor

Keep in touch with Robert and the Mill team via social media or email editor@millmagazine.co.uk 4 MILL

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Editor: Robert Blair Design & Sales: Paul Dickson Beauty Editor: Susie Cormack Bruce Interiors Editor: Kike Pavlik Men’s Fashion Editor: Josef Mcfadden Sub Editor: Alistair Forrest Contributors: Lesley Adams, Chlöe Boyd, Keira Brown, David Cameron, Gary Chittick, David Eustace, Caroline Gormley, Diarmid MacArthur, Catherine McAtier, Lucy McConnell, Gordon McGuire, Neil Mclean, Rachel McMinn, Marty McNaughton, Fred McNeill, Jonzip McNeill, Eddie Middleton, Jackie Mills, Sharon Pattison, Gerry Rodden, James Smith, James Stevenson and Renfrewshire Foodies

To advertise in Mill, please call 0773 998 9969 or email paul�millmagazine.co.uk Produced on environmentally friendly chlorine-free paper derived from sustained forests. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices are correct at time of going to press but subject to change. The content of all advertisements in this publication is the responsibility of the advertiser and is received in good faith. Mill Magazine cannot be held responsible for any erroneous advertising content. The opinions expressed in Mill Magazine are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publishers who cannot be held responsible for actions taken as a result of the content of this magazine. © Mill Magazine Ltd 2020.

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FEATURES

INVESTING IN US

As normal life seeps back in, here’s a PSA on the merits of keeping money in your community.

eartening as the past few years have been for Renfrewshire, the gradual return of normality means that we, the people that populate the area, need to do what we can to safeguard that momentum. Felt across culture, cuisine and commerce, keeping this upswing alive is impossible—particularly after local businesses were forced to grind to a halt—without delegating a certain amount of our expenditure to local businesses. Providing their clientele with unique, homebrewed and hand-crafted ingenuity or one-of-a-kind items, research from economic bodies has revealed that around 65p of every pound spent in the community will stay put within the region. So, whether it’s an extravagant purchase or something as seemingly insignificant as picking up some local produce to grabbing a coffee with a friend, this money all mounts up and acts as the replenishing lifeblood of our shops, beauty salons and cafés. r

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Capable of fostering cherished bonds that are impossible to glean from heading out to any corporate franchise or ordering online, these local businesses act as the hubs from which friendship, camaraderie and a spirit of mutual appreciation between proprietor and public can blossom. Away from the impact that it has on the residents of our area, it also harbours wider and wholly positive implications for the world itself. Emanating from within the local area, procuring your groceries from butchers, bakers, farmers markets and everything in between will minimise the emissions and pollution that’d arise by importing from further afield. Turning dreams and lifelong ambitions that were waiting to be fulfilled into thriving, successful operations, transferring your cash into civic prosperity is something that rewards everyone around us. After all, knowing that you have a whole community worth of avid customers could be the boost that’d take someone from swithering over going it alone to stepping out and bringing their expertise to Renfrewshire. So, whether you do it to reduce your carbon footprint or enrich our local villages, towns and shopping districts, head to the membership section of renfrewshirechamber.com or the business directory of paisleyfirst.com and find out where and how you can spend local.

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FEATURES

HONOUR THE HERITAGE, PRIORITISE THE PROGRESS At a time when the need for these events has been acutely illustrated, we provide a run down Renfrewshire’s plans for Black History Month celebrations in October.

ow more than ever, the world is taking a good, in many ways long overdue, look at itself and ensuring that not only are we leading with empathy and understanding in our day-to-day lives, but that we place education at the forefront of our minds. Not for academic attainment nor to get some cynical, self-preservation-based participation badge for doing so, but to make lasting, systemic change to the way that the world function and usher in a time where equality for all is no longer a placation or catchphrase, but a reality. Therefore, it’s heartening to see that the programme for Black History Month in Renfrewshire has been constructed with inclusion in mind and is carrying on unimpeded by the logistical hurdles presented by Covid-19. Structured around an ethos of ‘our culture, our future’, this year’s festivities will serve as a celebration of the diversity of our local area, equipping and entertaining our community with an eclectic mix of artistic work, online roundtables and a myriad of other resources that will both amaze and incite conversation. Constructed alongside a litany of partners such as Engage Renfrewshire, Pachedu, Jambo! Radio, Action for Culture and Ethics and Renfrewshire 8 MILL

Joshua Idehen, photo by Alex Lake

Leisure, this multiplatform approach means that there’s sure to be something for everyone that wants to engross themselves in this large-scale celebration of African diaspora and the bright future ahead. “Jambo! Radio is involved in the planning subgroup for Black History Month in Renfrewshire, and as a radio station for the people of AfroCaribbean heritage, it is important we lead by contributing on the theme and programmes”, says station founder George Tah Meh. “It is also important for our organisation to be at the forefront of Black History Month for our audience and the Afro-Caribbean community in Renfrewshire.” As someone who works day in and day out on an organic, grassroots level, Gozie Joe Adigwe, New Buddies Network Officer at Engage Renfrewshire, is excited by the prospect of what the month will bring. “In my role, I’ve been enjoying working on BHM 2020 as there is so much to know, enjoy and share about black heritage in Renfrewshire. Exploring heritage is a fantastic way to understand communities deeply, building community capacity along the way. I’m looking forward to our future developments.” Although the full schedule is yet to be finalised, the programme will be laden with hotly anticipated and insightful performances from across the cultural sphere. Set to be hosted across Jambo! Radio, Renfrewshire Leisure’s Ren TV and numerous social media platforms, some of the preliminarily confirmed artists include London-based poet/musician Joshua Idehen as well as the acclaimed Scottish storyteller Michael Kerins. In addition to the riveting and illuminating works that are sure to be delivered, you can also expect an amalgam of exciting online exhibitions

brought to you by The School of African Culture and Paisley Museum, hinged around exploring African and Scottish identities. Samuel Oludare Yerokun of partners ‘Action for Culture and Ethics’ has proclaimed that “we are proud to be involved in the collaboration for this year's Black History Month celebration in Renfrewshire – Our Culture, Our Future. I am particularly happy that this year's BHM programme is being co-curated by the African community in Renfrewshire; Action for Culture and Ethics are very passionate in driving this programme forward and continuing to work together in future.” Primed to conclude the month of events with a ‘Cultural Conversation Webinar’ that will explore equality, diversity, inclusion and systemic change, all of this collaboratively curated content will be supplemented by social media takeovers throughout the 31-day spell over on the Paisley Arts Centre Twitter account. From the abolitionist poetry of our bard Robert Tannahill to the manner in which Virginia-born black weaver Peter Burnett was said to be embraced by Paisley’s locals upon his arrival in the late 1700s, Renfrewshire has historically placed an onus on equality and diversity. And by enshrining Black History Month into the yearly calendar, the community can build upon that heritage and forge ahead into a new era. Devised with the assistance, engagement and enthusiasm of the local community in mind, expect Black History Month 2020 to be the beginning of something special. To participate in the conversation, use the #RenBHM on social media. Meanwhile, for all the updated programme announcement and when they emerge, please visit renfrewshireleisure.com/whats-on.

These activities for Black History Month in Renfrewshire are funded by Renfrewshire Council and delivered in partnership with Renfrewshire Leisure as part of Future Paisley. Future Paisley is a radical and wide-ranging programme of events, activities and investments using the town’s unique and internationally significant cultural stories to transform its future. MILL 9

FEATURES

Creativity over commerce

Aiming to be a stronghold for artists and creatives, What If… owner Catherine McAtier guides us through her new social enterprise hub.

hen you cross over the threshold into What If…’s Moss Street premises, one of the first things that strikes you is that it’s completely antithetical to the societal pressure cooker workplace as misrepresented by many. The place bustles with activity, but it isn’t fuelled by panic or the pervading fear of a boss breathing down their necks. No, this is simply a space for creatives to plough ahead on their own accord, beautifying both their minds and the world around them in the process. Renovated with the assistance of her dad, the former WEvolution base was reimagined by embroidery and textile artist Catherine McAtier. After taking early retirement from her 9-5 in order to focus her energy on her craft, Catherine’s decision to lead with courage is one that’s very much in keeping with the ethos of the ‘bricks and mortar’ establishment that evolved from an idea into a self-reliant social enterprise. For her, What If… is the summation of what she and other creatives have been seeking for years. “I don’t really subscribe to the work-life balance now,” she proclaimed. “I used to really struggle to get up in the morning. It was always a case that I’d be lying there thinking, ‘right, another ten minutes and I’ll get up.’ 10 MILL

Now, I’m raring to get here. My old colleagues wouldn’t even believe it.” With Catherine’s son in the midst of transforming one of the upstairs rooms into a recording studio for local musicians to cut their teeth, What If… also plays host to Amanda Mckinlay of The Butterfly Rooms, whose ‘angelic art therapy’ strives to recapture the childlike joy of creativity. For its proprietor, the two main ventricles that form the heart of What If… always boil down to creativity and wellbeing. “Before I did this full time, it’s something I’d also gravitate to when things got too much,” Catherine revealed. “After you come back to it time and time again, you think ‘oh, there must be something in this’. Now, more people are starting to see this.” “What If… is about providing a hub for creative people to either sell their hand-crafted work or giving them the opportunity to secure some workshop space. I think for a lot of us, these are some of the biggest hurdles to overcome. Now that we’re getting things underway, I think that’s becoming a reality.” What If…, 25 Moss Street, Paisley, PA1 1DJ, 07495 111837, whatif.community.

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BYRNE

Now in his 8th decade, John Byrne is still that same man from Ferguslie with ingenuity to spare. Here, we discuss his recent milestones, Renfrewshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enduring spirit and much more.

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Photos by David Eustace

John

INTERVIEW

hen people from beyond the region’s postcodes, think of Paisley and Renfrewshire, a few things will commonly come to mind. Perhaps they’ve visited for a night out, undertaken a trip in the aid of football fandom or made an excursion through for a show at the town hall or Arts Centre. In certain cases, they may know of Paisley Abbey or have heard the unsubstantiated rumour that a panther stalks its way through the darker recesses of the Glennifer Braes. When it comes to representing the toast of what we have to offer, John Byrne holds the unique distinction as a living landmark. A totem to what a Paisley-born individual can achieve with enough perseverance and undeterred ambition, John’s career, whether in his primary vocation with paintbrush in hand or through his dalliances with plays and screenwriting, has made him into a revered figure the world over. Beyond what he represents in the abstract, John remains fiercely proud and interconnected with his background in the town. Corresponding from his home in Edinburgh, the iconic figure spoke to us about his origins, what’s changed, what hasn’t and what advice he’d impart to the new generation of homegrown creatives. You recently returned to Paisley to mark your 80th birthday at the first annual book fest. How did it feel to return for such a momentous occasion? I was both happy and delighted to return for the first ever Paisley Book Festival, which was a momentous and happy occasion. Organised by a group of townspeople, it was sold out for its entire run.

Hailing from Ferguslie, was embarking on a life of creativity almost a revolutionary act against the expectations of the era or just a case of following your imagination? Growing up in Ferguslie Park was a great adventure for me. There were seasons for street games, from ‘bools’ to ‘gurs’ plus times for comics, cigarette cards swapping etcetera. All in all, an endless round of entertainment and FUN.

“THE ESSENCE IS EXACTLY THE SAME AS WHEN I GREW UP THERE, ONLY BETTER, WHAT WITH THE MUSEUM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TOWN BEING GIVEN A MONUMENTAL MAKEOVER!”

Looking back, is the town inalienable from the one that you grew up in, and is its frequency still the same? The essence is exactly the same as when I grew up there, only better, what with the museum in the middle of the town being given a monumental makeover!

Your new play Underwood Lane will now have its world premiere in June 2021, a year later than was intended due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Like other works such as Tutti Frutti and Your Cheatin’ Heart, it charts the life of a group of aspiring musicians. Has that been the sort of existence that’s always fascinated you? Yes, as a teenager, I lived through the ‘skiffle’ era. Then, ‘rock ’n’ roll’ came along and, of course, we were armed to the teeth with guitars and books of chords. So, the transition seemed perfectly natural. Initial reports suggested that the music of Gerry Rafferty would be very much interwoven into the piece. Has that been retained? I’m afraid I couldn’t get the rights for Gerry’s songs as he had left them to his granddaughter, Celia. By the time the lawyers explained the ins and outs of granting the stage rights, it was too far down the line and so I picked songs from the50s. Thankfully, they turned out to be perfect for it.

You and Gerry were great friends for many years as well as having a unique creative rapport. Now, nine years after his passing, was the plan for you feel to still be working together in a sense? It did feel like a perfect collaboration at first, but as time went along, I realised I’d have to pick 50s songs for the shows. Otherwise, there was no hope of getting it on anywhere. MILL 13

INTERVIEW

Another speculated element of the play is that it will delve into the religious divide that’s plagued Scotland for generations, particularly in the central belt. Do you think it’s an issue that still permeates our nation in the same way today as it did back then? I was aware that growing up in Paisley, many of your street pals, the one who played ‘kick the can’ with and got beaten at ‘bools’ by, went to different schools than you did but that’s pretty much the way it was. We all accepted that. There was a lot of ‘catcalls’ levelled at guys in your street, but it never came to blows or bottle throwing. I didn’t come across any bigotry in our street at all. How has the experience of working with a tenured musical director such as Hillary Brooks aided in bringing your vision to life? I’m very lucky to have Hilary Brooks in our corner. She is a superb MD and is perfect for us as the piece is set in the 50s. Away from the play, The John Byrne Award is continuing to alter the lives of artists from around the country. Do you feel it’s important to celebrate work that tackles pertinent topics and stimulates discussion? Yes, it’s very important to know that young people are out to make this a better world and if The John Byrne Award is in any way helpful in bringing this to others’ attention, it will be doing what it set out to achieve. Your career-spanning Then Till Now exhibition just wrapped up in November. How did it feel to look back upon your work in such an all-encompassing way? That should be for someone else to answer but I would say that, wouldn’t I? I did recognise ‘favourites’ and ‘milestones’ in the show, not necessarily ‘important’ milestones, 14 MILL

except to me, but it’s always enjoyable to give a nod to past work. That said, it’s even more enjoyable to get on with work of the NOW. Do you have another project on the docket after Underwood Lane or is it a case that the work never stops? The work never stops, as you suggest. I wouldn’t know what to do with myself if I didn’t pick up a brush and make marks on a canvas, however meagre they might be. Finally, what, if anything, would you say to a young artist from Paisley that’s perhaps feeling discouraged by the pressures of modern life? I would say—if anything—to a young budding artist from Paisley, look at the world around

you. What do you see? Ah, yes. All the usual things and everyday objects. ‘Familiarity breeds contempt’ is a great saying from my childhood years but I never, ever thought that was true. When you first come into the world, everything is brand new, never seen before by you. This is how you can view the world, with a fresh eye. You’ll be amazed what you have missed in casting a casual look at something, whether simple or complex. If you want to become an artist, you have to shed light on everyday life and objects and switch a bulb on in the viewer’s skull. Keep up with John’s ongoing enrichment of Scotland’s creative landscape at johnbyrneaward.org.uk.

Dear John: A Thirty-Year Portrait The photos in this piece have been kindly bestowed upon us from the internationally acclaimed David Eustace and his 2019 portfolio Dear John: A Thirty-Year Portrait. An immensely sentimental project for both subject and photographic artist, there’s no person better suited to capturing the likeness of Paisley’s finest than a man who views John’s faith in him as being of crucial importance during the nascent days of his career. “During that first portrait you were generous enough not only to give of your time but also to make me feel I had total control of the situation, which I hadn’t,” Eustace writes in the accompanying artist’s statement. “Take your time you reassured me. That meant so much to this novice photographer.” Having purchased a copy on behalf of Renfrewshire Leisure, CEO Victoria Hollows expressed her admiration

for this lovingly rendered collection, stating that “not only are the photographs a stunning selection of John Byrne portraits, they are the perfect way to represent and celebrate John, a hugely loved and respected figure in Paisley, and who is in turn a great supporter of his hometown. We look forward to showcasing this exciting portfolio.” Chronicling their shared time together as collaborators and compatriots, the collection is a testament to not only the beauty that comes from familiarity, but the magic that can arise when the person behind the lens has an innate understanding of his sitter. Three decades in the making, these images capture the subtle gravitas and effortless cool of the artist, writer and playwright like no other. For more information, visit davideustace.com. MILL 15

FEATURES

A date with MR FABULOUS The multi-award-winning Mr Fabulous is a TV personality, radio presenter, charity ambassador and esteemed reviewer of all things leisure. You can find him on STV’s Live At Five doing Caught Your Eye or on his Scene Radio show – Mondays at 7pm – that has welcomed everyone from Gok Wan to Matt Goss and beyond. Set to become a regular fixture, this is the first edition of his new column in which we find out where Mr F loves to go and where he’d recommend.

HIGHLAND CATHEDRAL KILTS Highland Cathedral Kilts is a small family-run business in Renfrew; they have a wide selection of kilts, as well as a plethora of different jackets and waistcoats to choose from. In addition to our traditional highland dress, I was in the market for an elegant suit to wear to a special event. Well, the shop’s owner Alex Ford sorted me out from his large selection of formalwear. If you don't have the time to pop in, you can venture onto his 'outfit builder' online service where you select the outfit you want to hire. If you want to look into getting your kilt made to measure for that very special day, look no further! 15 Hairst Street, Renfrew, PA4 8QU, 07725 135243, highlandcathedralkilts.co.uk.

RED ONION Red Onion is my favourite city centre restaurant. Head chef/owner John Quigley is the culinary wizard to the stars such as Tina Turner and Bryan Adams among others. I meet chef Quigley while working at STV and it was always a pleasure tasting his delicious food live on the show. Well, my last visit, what can I say? You’ve heard about the Eurovision Song Contest; this was the Eurovision food contest! I had the French onion soup for starters. The taste was sublime, the cheese melted throughout the soup and was magnifique. Now my taste buds were primed for the main course, a wonderful Spanish style pork loin, tomato chorizo ragu alongside patatas bravas and aioli. It was Spain on a plate, all that was missing was the flamenco dancing! Finally, I finished with the most delicious homemade hot chocolate brownie served with honeycomb ice cream. I couldn’t recommend it enough! West Campbell Street, Glasgow, G2 4TT, 0141 221 6000, red-onion.co.uk. Keep up with Mr Fabulous’ adventures via his Facebook, Twitter (@Mr_Fabulous2803) and Instagram @Mrjustfabulous. 16 MILL

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The perfect gift Luxury white towels, bathrobes and bathmats delivered direct to your door

A Common Thread Emerging earlier this year, Love Towels bring luxury to Renfrewshire.

enerally speaking, 2020 has been a tumultuous year for those looking to start up a new business venture. Yet for those who have supreme confidence in not only their abilities but the quality of their product and presentation, it’s been a calculated leap worth taking. Based in the heartland of Paisley, founder Margaret McGregor Oliver’s eagerness to bet on herself is exactly what ushered Love Towels into existence. After plying her trade in the corporate textiles industry for 36 years, the Renfrewshire resident decided to channel her time and energy into her unquenchable passion for excellence in all things towels, bathrobes and bathmats. Driven by her desire to provide a peerless product that you’d be more accustomed to luxuriating in during a grandiose weekend retreat than on a day-to-day basis, Margaret’s philosophy is that this undervalued sensory experience shouldn’t be limited to an occasional trip away. Specialising in crisp, clean white products, Love Towels’ inventory comes from the finest merchants in Europe but is adorned with packaging that represents its point of dispatchment. Inspired by the town’s illustrious history of innovation in textiles, Margaret’s new enterprise serves as a spiritual extension of that proud heritage. Complete with an embroidery, monogramming and free laundry kit services, Love Towels isn’t just a stellar addition to your own home, but could easily be used as a thoughtful and cherished gift idea for all number of occasions. From weddings and anniversaries to the everyday rituals of your own home, Love Towels is here to take your bathing experience to new heights. Visit lovetowels.co.uk and place an order, view testimonials or purchase a gift voucher now.

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FEATURES

Eduard Friedrich Leybold: Portrait of a Young Lady in a Red Dress

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FEATURES

From Kashmir to Renfrewshire Dress and Textiles History Scholar Lucy McConnell transports us back to the heyday of textile production in Renfrewshire at the time of the Paisley shawl

ecognised for its level of production and the quality of industrial output, Renfrewshire was a major manufacturer of textiles across numerous decades. As woven textile production spread throughout the towns and villages, adapting to new production techniques enabled the area to flourish, resulting in shifting borders and population growth. The diverse range of fabrics and finished garments which were produced, particularly through the 18th and 19th centuries, is testament to the talents of Renfrewshire’s weavers who had been honing their craft prior to the arrival of shawl production in the area. At the beginning of the 18th century, Renfrewshire’s textiles were considered coarse and poorly finished. However, through establishing new trading links with England through the 1707 Act of Union, goods produced in the west of Scotland would soon be whisked off to the markets of London. In response to this market expansion, Renfrewshire shifted towards quality textiles that were aimed at these growing fashion markets. As an established manufacturing centre, Renfrewshire garnered acclaim through the 18th century as techniques progressed and tastes changed. The quality and low cost of the area’s linens, muslins and silks were noted by both the trades and consumers, resulting in London-based firms relocating to Paisley and surrounding areas to reap the benefits of its skilful weavers and reduced costs. Courtesy of the river Cart, products could be transported to Glasgow and onwards to other trading centres for sale. Though geographically small, 19th century Renfrewshire grew significantly in population, connectivity and industry. Recognised the world over for the distinctive pattern which bears its name, the pine pattern shawl came to be produced in Paisley at the beginning of the 19th century.

Initially brought to Europe through imperial rule and the stationing of the British East India Company in India, the costly garments, woven of cashmere goat’s hair and decorated with colourful būtā forms, were sought after by western society’s fashionable elite. To meet demand, production of imitation shawls began in Edinburgh, Scotland, Norwich, England, and Lyon, France, from the 1780s, with manufacturing being brought to Paisley by Edinburgh producers seeking aid to fulfil orders in 1805. When Paisley’s silk trade collapsed, the shawls serendipitously arrived to take centre stage as the town’s prime textile product. Widely known as the pine pattern shawl in western society, designs were drawn from ancient eastern floral forms adorning Kashmir originals. Famously, it was only when Paisley overtook its competitors in the production of imitation shawls that the town’s name became associated with the decorative forms that covered it. The skill of Paisley’s weavers, initially recognised in the production of silk, the quality of which rivalled that of Spitalfields silk, meant it was only natural that they were approached to assist with fulfilling market desires for the pine pattern. As many London manufacturers relocated to Paisley, the numbers settling in the town grew even further in the 19th century. As a result, Paisley’s borders expanded to incorporate surrounding towns and villages. After sustained success, advances in technology and changes in fashion not only altered the industry but the fate of those involved in Paisley’s shawl manufacturing. However, changing trends reinvigorated the trade in the 1850s following several market depressions. The increasing popularity of the hooped cage crinoline skirt, and the patronage of Queen Victoria, who purchased MILL 21

seventeen Paisley produced shawls to aid the town, rescued the industry until, inevitably, the introduction of the bustle skirt ended the fashion for shawls in the 1870s. Although its name is ingrained into the fashion world’s vocabulary, Paisley was not alone as a weaving centre in Renfrewshire. The entire area can be recognised for its contribution to fashion as well as the production and processing of a plethora of textiles. Across the 18th and 19th centuries, different towns and villages adopted specialities in weaving, bleaching, dying, raw material processing and preparation, and the making-up of fabrics into finished garments. Kilbarchan is one area which was commented on in the New Statistical Account of Scotland (1845) as having a number of individuals employed in handloom weaving “in comparably greater proportion of the population of Paisley itself.” From 1845, descriptions of Kilbarchan’s weavers’ detail a reputation for superior skill and expertise in their trade. In high demand, Kilbarchan’s weavers produced fancy textiles including lawns and

Studio portrait of a seated figure wearing a pine pattern shawl c. 1860s. Photograph from author’s own collection.

“ALTHOUGH ITS NAME IS INGRAINED INTO THE FASHION WORLD’S VOCABULARY, PAISLEY WAS NOT ALONE AS A WEAVING CENTRE IN RENFREWSHIRE”

Printed calico in pink and red and a twill weave printed calico, in imitation of Turkey Red, Both c. mid to late eighteenth century. Private collection. Images courtesy of Suzanne Marshall-Smith.

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cambric (both fine-weave linens), tartans and muslins from the mid-18th century, as well as silks and fine cotton goods into the 19th century. By the 1820s, most of the 800 Kilbarchan weavers were completing work by contract to Paisley and Glasgow firms, manufacturing square and long shawls in delicate silks and cottons. The village of Kilbarchan was also home to bleachfields and printfields, providing employment to bleachers, copper-plate engravers and block-cutters in the preparation and finishing of fabrics. Meanwhile, Houston provided home to Houston Bleachfield, concerned with the bleaching and processing of Chinese raw silk, alongside linen and cotton yarns. Johnstone’s textile output was mostly focused on cotton yarn, with weavers and cotton-spinners

FEATURES

Studio portrait; the seated figure is wearing a pine pattern shawl, c. 1880s-1890s. Photograph from author’s own collection.

Detail of rectangular ‘Kirking’ shawl with cream coloured centre ground and blue patterning to the perimeter, woven in Paisley, c. 1860s. Sma’ Shot Cottages. Author’s own image.

also making-up the majority of Elderslie’s population in the mid-19th century. Friendly societies were established across the region, enabling the trades to make monetary contributions which would be available as aid in harder times. The New Statistical Account details that Neilston, for example, had societies with 3325 weavers alongside calico-printers, bleachers, cotton-spinners and tailors all boasting significant numbers. Printing on calico, a tightly-woven, unbleached and unfinished cotton cloth, began in Renfrewshire at Fereneze around 1773, utilising the banks of East Renfrewshire’s Levern. Various forms of industrial manufacture were undertaken in the parish of Renfrew at the time of Paisley shawl production, with the neighbouring town’s textile trades being chiefly concerned with the weaving of muslin. Employing men as well as a number of women directly in its weaving, looms used in the manufacture of muslin numbered almost 260 in the mid-19th century. Women residing in Renfrew were also heavily involved with the subsidiary trade of winding for muslin, as well as finishing textiles woven in Paisley and Glasgow, often clipping, tambouring and flowering from their own homes. These roles demonstrate the interconnected nature of the area and the importance of trade links to nearby town and city ports. With Renfrew’s proximity to the Clyde, it was advantageous to the trades to utilise the fleet of steamers and the Renfrew ferry to transport their goods. To this day, Renfrewshire is intertwined with textile production. Between altering its geography and increasing the population, the industry’s impact is undeniable. Recognised for their skill and adaptability, individuals involved in the manufacture of textiles in Renfrewshire produced quality fabric goods, each unique in their weave, colouring, and patternation, throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. An interconnected process, those involved in the preparation of materials, weaving and finishing textiles, as well as making up garments, worked together across the network of towns and villages. As a result, the textile industry altered the area of Renfrewshire immeasurably and its impact can still be traced several centuries on. MILL 23

FASHION

STYLE

In these unprecedented times, our fashion muso Josef McFadden argues that your compulsory accessory needn't be an eyesore.

ou can’t avoid masks in 2020. So much of my daily life is spent forgetting I’m wearing one or trying to make sure my glasses don't steam up, checking my pockets to make sure I’ve got it, or making double journeys up and down my flat stairs after forgetting the essential face covering. It truly has entered the hallowed pantheon of “wallet, keys, phone.” One of the great things about printed masks is that you can begin to use them as part of your outfit. Match, clash, complement; these garments are quickly

Skull organic cotton t-shirt, £20

Octopus organic cotton t-shirt, £20

Masks from £11, available in sizes small to extra large becoming what “fashion socks” meant for 2011. All of my masks are manufactured in the UK, the majority of which are printed and sewn directly in my Paisley High Street studio. Employing either tightly woven cotton or lightweight, quilt stitch airflow knit fabrics, they're the perfect covering for shopping, trains, pub trips and post lockdown reunions. Stay safe while injecting some flair into our ’new normal’. Comfortable to wear, reusable and washable, you'll undoubtedly be able to find a colour or theme to mesh with your personal style. You can shop masks at josefmcfadden.com or if you want to spend locally, visit the Remode Shop on Paisley High Street or Incube Shop on Gilmour Street. 24 MILL

FEATURES

Local businesses need you—now more than ever. Let’s all show them our support and spend local. www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/spendlocal MILL 25

ECOMODE

Sustainable-fashion blogger, Rachel McMinn, selects eight wardrobe essentials for women that don’t cost the earth.

ORGANIC BASICS TOP

Turtlenecks are in fashion every single year! It’s time to invest in this amazing quality basic. £52, organicbasics.com

ARKET JACKET

The ideal layering piece for the the colder weather coming. Such a versatile jacket that is made from 100% organic cotton. £79, arket.com.

3 ARKET BAG

Would you know that this bag is made from recycled polyester and recovered fishing nets? Stay on trend the sustainable way. £69, arket.com.

VEJA TRAINERS

Perfect to pair with any outfit, these trainers are lined with organic cotton and are a staple piece for your shoe collection. £95, veja-store.com. 26 MILL

HEEBE NECKLACES

As well as your wardrobe, why not make your jewellery collection sustainable as well? These gorgeous necklaces are available in a range of colours. $40, message @heebegems via Instagram.

DAMSON MADDER DRESS

This gorgeous high necked midi dress is the perfect item to stay sustainable and fashionable this Autumn! It’s a great way to add some colour into your wardrobe and It is made from 100% organic cotton. £42, damsonmadder.com.

FASHION

7 PEOPLE TREE

A timeless piece that you can easily incorporate into your wardrobe. These organic cotton trousers are perfect for everyday wear. £49, peopletree.co.uk

WEARTH LONDON RING A classic piece to add to your everyday look. Made from 100% recycled gold and silver. £38, wearthlondon.com

MILL 27

SPONSORED FEATURE

Investing in OUR FUTURE

As we all get accustomed to giving our planet all the help we can, Ingliston Country Club & Hotel are setting a stellar example in environmental awareness.

s their estate nurseries bustle with an abundance of herbs and plants from their polytunnels, Ingliston Country Club & Hotel’s eco agenda carries on with as much enthusiasm as ever. While this produce is enlisted by their chefs in their kitchens, they have since segued into growing meadow flowers that are designated for use in weddings. Looking to continue to expand their environmentally friendly endeavours, ground preparation is also well underway for fruit-bearing orchards and with chicken coops now in place, they will soon be welcoming a flock of fowl onto the land. In the process, serving up a replenishing stock of fresh eggs to their eclectic variety of guests. Veering from poultry to pollination, the recent addition of beehives will produce honey that, you guessed it, will be incorporated directly into their creations in the kitchen. A source of pride for both its management and owners, Ingliston have one of the largest solar panel areas in Scotland. In turn, allowing them to be completely green with their reusable energy. For those of us who’ve basked in the beautifully illuminated glow of the country club in the evening, it's reassuring to know that they’re powering that spectacle in the most ethical way possible. Unwilling to stop there, Ingliston is supporting the environment even further with the introduction of electric

car charging points that are situated in the main car park. In addition, all light bulbs on the premises are energy efficient and their approach to laundry means that that they conserve on any wastage. As if that wasn’t enough, they also reuse the horse manure – of which they have plenty – as a nutrient-rich fertiliser! Based upon the many changes that they’ve implemented, it's clear that maintaining a sustainable and eco-conscious business, alongside preparing and safeguarding the future, resides at the very heart of Ingliston. A destination of choice for both Renfrewshire residents and those from further afield, whether you wish to eat, sleep or play, there is truly something for everyone. Ingliston Country Club & Hotel, Old Greenock Road, Bishopton, PA7 5PA, 01505 864 333, general@ingliston.co.uk, ingliston.com. MILL 33

Paving the way As Paisley begins to re-emerge from a Covid-19-induced slumber, Victoria Hollows, Chief Executive of Renfrewshire Leisure, explains why thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty for residents to get excited about.

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INTERVIEW

As a charitable trust, how exciting is it for Renfrewshire Leisure to be involved in projects such as Paisley Town Hall and the museum’s redevelopment? “It’s extremely exciting. Obviously, none of us could have foreseen the awful circumstances of this year. However, I think it’s important that we look at the positives whenever possible and Paisley has a great deal to look forward to. It’s fair to say the scale of these projects is really unprecedented. Take the transformation of the £42 million redevelopment Paisley Museum, for example. We have a fantastic opportunity to deliver a completely revitalised landmark that will be a fully accessible social hub for local people. Few places of Paisley’s size have had such a global impact and the museum’s redevelopment will allow us to tell its stories with more impact than ever before. When it reopens, the number of objects on display will have increased by 100 per cent and our team is looking forward to working with the whole community to make this project into the success it deserves to be. The transformation of Paisley Town Hall is another great example of Renfrewshire’s ambition. This building is a Grade A-listed Victorian gem. Once finished, we are excited to collaborate with an even greater range of artists, performers and others to enrich the area’s cultural landscape. Individually and collectively, these developments have the potential to uplift the lives of the people we’re so privileged to serve.” What difference do you believe these projects will make in fulfilling Paisley’s potential? “Each development is designed to unlock the unique cultural

credentials of the town, telling stories which are crying out to be told. We are elated to be working with Renfrewshire Council to fully realise the area’s cultural capabilities. Economically, culturally, socially and in regards to wellbeing, each major project could be transformational. They are designed to enrich the community in so many ways, creating opportunities for local people and broadening horizons. We are taking the grit and determination that shaped Paisley and using that as a firm foundation to build our future. Over the next 30 years, researchers have estimated the museum will provide a £79m economic boost, so those figures highlight just what an important part culture and leisure play in Renfrewshire’s economic life. We’re keen for the museum, town hall and our other venues to be catalysts for supporting the businesses around them. It’s really important that we are a great neighbour to our local enterprise, so we’re looking forward to allotting visitors the opportunity to sample some of the great hospitality we have on our doorstep.” Renfrewshire Leisure’s charitable trust status often goes underpublicised. Could you detail how this relationship between leisure and cultural services improves lives? “It is fair to say that many people don’t realise Renfrewshire Leisure is an independent charitable trust, but that’s exactly what we are and we’re extremely proud of it. This designation gives us a platform to deliver the remarkable breadth of work we’re involved in, ranging from specialist community health and support services to accessible, affordable gyms and swimming pools or the amazing array of

amenities provided by libraries and wider cultural offerings. As a non-profit organisation, any surpluses from our operational activity are used to support community services for those who need them most. So, the intertwined relationship between our leisure and cultural services is critical in making a positive difference to lives across Renfrewshire. Not all of this work is very visible, so it’s really important for us to let people know that when they support our services, by taking out a membership, or coming to a class, they’re not just backing a venue, but ensuring that we can support our communities.” How is recovery looking for Renfrewshire Leisure in a post Covid-19 world? “The safety of our staff and customers is our number one priority. My team and I have been clear on that from the moment we closed in-person services and facilities prior to the national lockdown. What we’re doing currently – in line with Scottish government guidelines – is reopening venues and restarting services as it’s deemed safe to do so. Our teams have been working tirelessly and I’ve been overwhelmed by their continued commitment, enthusiasm and energy during such difficult times. The innovation that they’ve shown in delivering digital services has been pivotal in reaching as many people as possible. The real message is that we are here for you as your local provider of key cultural, physical and wellbeing services. We’re extremely grateful to all of our members, customers and stakeholders for their continued patience and support as we work our way through all of this in the safest way possible.” Keep up with Renfrewshire Leisure at renfrewshireleisure.com. MILL 35

Hanging Lot Chair, £417, nest.co.uk

LA VIE BOHÈME! Channel your inner beatnik with these slick, innovative interiors tips from Kike Pavlik.

ohemian style stereotypically resembles Eastern interiors with a lot of bright colours and patterns, not to mention a mix of different types of furniture. Consequently, it’s quite easy to take a kitsch attitude to it and this is something we want to avoid in our houses. However, there is a new, tasteful way to do bohemian style in which the art of layering patterns, mixing colours and combining furniture can give a room a fun and free-spirited vibe. This look retains the relaxed appearance, but the busy patterns and intense colours have taken a backseat this time. In lieu of those classic tropes, it is all about texture and a softer palette teamed with earthy tones. Bohemian or “boho” design is a mix of the eclectic, exotic, a little modern yet vintage but, above all, personal style. As a result, spaces that are built around this loose concept have a unique and very individualised atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice for those who like experimenting, reinventing and exploring their own style without paying attention to popular trends. Instead, this gives them free rein to imbue their own personality into the design. To create a stylish bohemian décor and add a personal dash of sophistication to your space, why not play around with colours that determine the mood of your interior? Choose neutral colours for walls and sofas and dress them up with vibrant tones. Put a glamorous, opulent twist on the natural by mixing wood, brick and metal materials with glossy, velvet-upholstery fabrics. Beyond that, refined rattan side tables and embroidered cushions in rich brown or sandy tones can give a simple space a boho edge. For a unique effect and relaxed look, dip into scorched-earth orange, soft desert tones of clay or washed terracotta, as well as shell pink or natural linen 36 MILL

Trolley, £245; storage shelves, £148; wall shelf, £79.50, all Oliver Bonas Cushion, £10, Primark

Laundry Basket, £150, A by Amara

Marks and Spencer

g, Ru

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

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Table, £35, Argos

, £6 ay

by 0, A

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on seating. Punctuate these creations with a dark accent, mixing up geometric designs, stripes, macramé and painterly styles among others. That said, strive to keep to just three accent colours. Create a rustic bohemian space by keeping your colour palette very warm. For large pieces of furniture, choose muted colours and keep warm shades for your rug, pillows and art prints. Choose a mix of similar tones to tie everything together seamlessly. If you are more into light colours, streamline your boho living room with plenty of white, providing a beautiful foundation for the rest of the room. No boho space is complete without a magnificent statement rug. Alternatively, you can give a neutral room a lift by using a rug as a wall hanging. You can put it over the back of a sofa or as oversized wall art. The mix of earthy tones injects colour and life to the space and in conjunction with the rug, you can place baskets full of hanging greenery around the room for an extra texture. This adds more colour and a touch of nature to the room. Try mixing a variety of materials together such as wood, fur, various fabrics, leather and plants. For a more sophisticated finish, weave in a little shiny brass, plush and velvet. Use artwork and accessories on the wall such as colourful plates, golden frames or tapestry, etc. Naturally, this will create a feature wall. In doing so, choose a focal point – perhaps next to the TV or above the fireplace – that you want to frame. Bohemian style is for those who want their abodes to be full of life, culture, art and bespoke, interesting items. Tailor-made for those who want to give their home a personal touch and embrace a carefree, relaxed, creative and unorthodox environment, boho decor creates a sense of calm and tranquillity for anyone, young or old, to savour their time in.

Primark

LOCAL PRODUCT Macramé shelf, £38, All The Seas. Insta @all.the.seas FB @alltheseas MILL 37

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

7 Mar Hall Avenue, offers over £1,000,000, sold at closing date

Steadying the Ship Amid a period of uncertainty, Corum have pulled off an immense feat across Renfrewshire and beyond.

ince lockdown restrictions lifted in June and enabled the Scottish property market to effectively reopen, Corum have added over £115 million worth of property to the market across their nine branches in Glasgow, Renfrewshire and Ayrshire. The stellar performance of the property market in Scotland is greatly welcomed after the turbulence experienced during lockdown, with the commitment of both buyers and sellers to make their move proving to be a welcome sight. Sales since late June have been relentless with the perfect mix of hungry, well-funded buyers colliding with itchy-footed sellers eager to get their home on the market after a prolonged pause to proceedings. Corum’s Bridge of Weir branch in particular, which serves the whole of Renfrewshire, has witnessed an upsurge 38 MILL

in sales since the property market resumed, garnering purchases from right across the property spectrum. It is no secret that property demand has been outstripping supply and buyers are fighting hand over fist to win a sale, with closing dates becoming pretty much standard practice. With no LBTT (land and buildings transaction tax) to pay up to £250,000 and solid LTV (loan to value) rates on mortgages, buyers are well positioned to make strong offers. As a result, premiums for sellers are absolutely to be expected and they’re urged to list their home in quick fashion to take advantage while the going remains so good. A particular notable highlight is the performance at the top end of the market, with several off-market sales at over £800,000 and closing dates for properties north of £1m demonstrating the appetite that’s currently out there. We would encourage anyone interested in learning more about what selling their home would look like to contact Corum, Bridge of Weir for a no obligation discussion. For more information, contact Corum, 2 Windsor Place, Main Street, Bridge of Weir, PA11 3AF, 01505 691 400, corumproperty.co.uk

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Castle Semple Collegiate Church, photo by Gary Chittick

A Love Letter to

LOCHWINNOCH

Local author Diarmid MacArthur gives us a whistle-stop tour of his beloved village.

or many people, Lochwinnoch is just a scattering of houses and an indoor-football venue, teamed with a nice old, two-arch railway bridge spanning both the road and the River Calder. Between these attractions and the somewhat remote railway station lie two lochs which, in times of excessive rain, join up and close the A760, the road to that popular, day-trip destination, Largs. But next time you head to the coast, it’s worth turning off the main road and spending a bit of time exploring this lovely little village. It was once a bustling Mill village and vestiges of these structures remain, typically converted into flats. It was served by its own centrally located railway and station, with several train-oriented structures and interesting bridges still intact. The track-bed now forms the cycle 40 MILL

track that runs from Johnstone to Glengarnock, part of the National Cycle Network. There was even a furniture factory that, according to urban myth, supplied an array of fitments for the Titanic! The main street—formally registered as a conservation area—harbours many old and intriguing buildings that have been repurposed as attractive shops, cafés and pubs. So, if you fancy some marvellous coffee ‘n’ cake, a nice lunch or even just a roll and chips, you will be well catered for. However, you only need to walk a little way out of the village centre to find an area that is rich in history and bustling with surprises! Historical sights, such as the 15th century Barr Castle and the 16th century Collegiate Church, sit adjacent to the cycle track. A little further on is The Temple, a hilltop ruin once part of the Castle

Semple estate. A short ramble from the track will reward the explorer with old bridges and ruinous mills – be sure to take your camera! In springtime, a detour along the numerous pathways of Parkhill Woods will reward you with swathes of bluebells under the dappled canopy – the sight (and smell) is, quite simply, breathtaking! Carry on through the woods and a steep path leads out above the trees to reveal a spectacular viewpoint, overlooking the next attraction - Castle Semple Loch… This beautiful, two kilometre stretch of water offers many pursuits for the visitor. For nature lovers, there is a wonderful RSPB centre and shop, with interesting lochside walks, hides and activities to keep the whole family entertained. Then, there is the Clyde Muirshiel Visitor Centre, complete with a gift shop, refreshments and

FEATURES

Handcrafted Coffee

The Junction Café

Barr Castle, photo by Marty McNaughton

a host of local information. You can even hire a bike here and it`s right next to the level, paved cycle track, so no need to worry about any rough terrain or steep hills! For the more athletic visitors, the loch hosts a variety of activities, including rowing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and open-water swimming. Castle Semple loch and the adjacent centre provide changing facilities and toilets, with launch slipways and pontoons. But, if you’d rather, you can simply sit in the car park and feed the numerous semi-tame birds that frequent the shores (no dry bread, please!) Should you choose to carry on through the village and up the steep Johnshill, you will pass the frontage and bell-tower of the old Saint John`s Kirk, known locally as “Auld Simon”. Keep going and you will see signs

RSPB, photo by Eddie Middleton

Kenmure Hill Temple, photo by Gary Chittick

for Muirshiel Park, where a threemile drive up a single-track road will take you to a remote and secluded moorland park, reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands. There are toilets, picnic tables and woodland walks; you can cross a moorland path to Windy Hill, aptly named, as you will find out once you reach the summit! The walk is well worth it, though, as the views are spectacular. The track continues across the moor to the site of the old barytes mine, although it is dilapidated and dangerous, so it`s best to avoid any archaeological exploration! Muirshiel is an amazing, quiet and peaceful spot, one of the few places where a cuckoo can be heard in the spring. So, next time you’re heading for a day out in Largs, why not take a detour, turn right, cross one of the little bridges over the River Calder

and have a wander around this beautiful little Renfrewshire gem. Whether you stay for lunch, have a coffee, or rent a bike – it’s a certainty that you`ll be back… Diarmid MacAthur’s latest book, Drown For Your Sins, which is set in Renfrewshire, is available now. MILL MAGAZINE STOCKISTS The Junction Café & Cakery (great coffee, food and superb cakes), Bluewater Dentist (featuring former Scottish dentist of the year, Barry Lemon), Handcrafted Coffee (great range of coffee, chocolates, tea and hot chocolate), Now & Then (lovely little gift shop), RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve (excellent for a family day out), Castle Semple Café (relax in beautiful surroundings). MILL 41

FEATURES

QUINN 42 MILL

Photos by Joseph Lynn

Martin

After performing across stage and screen, actor and musician Martin Quinn tells us about his career and his Paisley roots.

INTERVIEW

here’s a lot to be said for casting off the expectations of your upbringing in a close-knit, socially scrutinising town to carve out a life in the arts. But for Paisley-born Martin Quinn; Star of Oor Wullie: The Musical, feature film Our Ladies and lead-singer of Velcrolove, what initially began as a parentally-induced hobby would morph into a guiding force in his life. “Well, we were sent to [acting] classes when I was around six along with my brothers, probably just to give us confidence,” he theorised. “My auntie’s husband Stewart Aitken was an actor and had performed in pantos a few times, so the family kinda had a connection with PACE. When I was around 10, I thought that I wanted to do this. We were onstage and, as expected with wee ones, everyone started forgetting their lines but I improvised something that made the audience laugh. I think that’s when I caught the bug.” “When you go into secondary school, it kinda becomes accepted, particularly because I got a part in Limmy’s Show at 14,” Martin continued. “All of a sudden, you don’t get slagged off for doing acting. Instead, it’s quite cool because you’ve been on the telly. It starts to form your identity.” After deferring entry to university to work with the Scottish Youth Theatre and apply to drama schools, a string of successes and Martin’s raw potential would transport him from the familiar locales of Renfrewshire to London and the prestigious Guildhall School of Music & Drama. A transition that, as well as broadening his horizons, helped realign his perspective on his hometown. “The National Theatre of Scotland were looking for some people to audition for a stage adaptation of Let The Right One In. Luckily, I got the lead role of Oskar, which led to my professional stage debut at the Dundee Rep before transferring to the Royal Court Theatre and eventually, the West End. So, that initial year out turned into two years and while in London, I decided to audition to more drama schools. Luckily, I got into a few and decided to go to Guildhall, following in the footsteps of fellow Scots like Ewan Macgregor and Shirley Henderson,” he beamed. “The transition wasn’t as drastic as I’d been down there for about eight months prior, but

“

GUILDHALL IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM GALLOWHILL, THE DISGUSTING WEALTH RIGHT NEXT TO REAL POVERTY GETS YOU DOWN”

Q&A FAVOURITE RENFREWSHIRE PUB? The Last Post FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? Multan Tandoori FAVOURITE BAND? Radiohead FAVOURITE DIRECTOR? Ken Loach

I definitely was homesick, listening to my pal’s bands and wishing I was up the road. Guildhall is very different from Gallowhill,” Martin asserted. “The disgusting wealth right next to real poverty gets you down. I love how culturally diverse it is, but overall, I prefer home. My family and friends are here and I didn’t realise how much I loved Paisley until I was about 20. I cannae get enough of it now.” Back in his native land, Martin would secure the lead role in the inaugural run of Oor Wullie: The Musical. Tasked with bringing the precocious troublemaker with a heart of gold to life during the show’s Scotland-wide tour, the responsibility that came with bringing DC Thomson’s most beloved creation to the stage wasn’t lost on him. “I mean, it was quite nerve-racking,” he admitted. “During the first photo shoot before rehearsals began, I was in a room with a photographer, marketing people and folk from the costume department and they all had different ideas of how I should be posing as Oor Wullie. But to be honest, the script takes care of the character and dialect and I just loosely keep the images from the annuals in my head when thinking about physicality. I think Ashley Jensen might have played him during a Scottish tour in the 90s - big shoes to fill! This is the first time it’s been turned into a musical, which is pretty cool!” When he wasn’t donning the dungarees, Martin found time to portray the bespectacled Stephen in Our Ladies, the latest offering from director Michael Caton Jones. Based on Alan Warner’s coming-of-age novel, the tale of five choir girls striving to find themselves during a trip to Edinburgh evidently left an impression on the young actor. “Aye, filming was very different to stage work,” Martin revealed, “in terms of less rehearsal and your relationship with a camera. The cast and crew were all lovely and it kinda left me itching to do more. Fingers crossed it speaks to folk, I don’t think I’ve seen a film quite like it, shining a light on five catholic teenage girls exploring their sexuality. And in Scotland! I believe the writer of the book wanted to represent the strength of his own sisters. You’d need to ask him to be sure that’s what he was going for, but I think it’s quite a powerful story!” MILL 43

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Aside from making forays into the acting world, Martin also plays in Velcrolove, a multi-national indie-folk outfit. After meeting at drama school, the three budding thespians have done their utmost to keep at it while managing their own individual careers. “We carried on with the name of my band before I left Paisley—mainly out of laziness—and started writing new songs or carried some over. Since graduating, we’ve played the odd gig and recorded our A Lack of Vocabulary EP produced by Catholic Action’s Chris McCrory. “We’ve got so many ideas, but it’s dead tricky to organise due to the nature of our work. Soon after graduating, Steff went on a world tour with Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre before filming BBC drama Hidden, while Sam left drama school early to take over a role in the Harry Potter play [The Cursed Child] and has since been in Peaky Blinders, Grantchester and Dracula. We’ll just need to see what happens, I’m sure we’ll manage to record another at some point.” Although the Covid-19 pandemic derailed the initial plans, Martin obtained a role in John Byrne’s new play 44 MILL

Underwood Lane. Initially slated to debut at The Paisley Arts Centre before a run at Glasgow’s Tron Theatre, the show— which is now earmarked for a June 2021 premiere at an as yet unspecified location— isn’t simply another high-profile placement for him. In fact, its titular setting will give him time to commune with his familial roots in the town. “I’m buzzin’ to be working with another Paisley buddie and an iconic one at that,” he exclaimed. “Underwood Lane is actually where my grandparents lived when they moved over from Donegal and it was my dad’s first home in 1954, not long off when the play is set. “Other than that, I’ve got a few hopeful projects but nothing’s set in stone. Last Christmas, I helped produce a music video starring Richard Wilson for my big brother, Peter [singer-songwriter Quinny] and I’m hoping to do more of that. In this line of work, you kinda just need to look the uncertainty of life right in the face and keep going.” Keep up with Martin on Instagram @martin_quinn1

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FEATURES

As moral panic around punk reached a fever pitch, Paisley found itself at the vanguard of a watershed moment in culture. Constructed in collaboration with Paisley.Is, we get the real story from those who immersed themselves in rebellion.

n a way that mirrors our modern world, the mid-‘70s was propelled forward by two unmistakable forces – activism and innovation. Dubbed “a pivot of change” by historians, the cultural and political landscape would be forever altered by groundbreaking developments that took the prohibitive attitudes of the past and emphatically discarded them. While it’s easy to presume that these everyday acts of revolution were occurring in some distant land, one of the era’s most potent and enduring forces found solace in a town teeming with talent and a simmering spirit of rebellion. Unwilling to bow to tyranny, the songs that pay homage to the industrial action that inspired Paisley’s annual Sma’ Shot Day and the powerful anti-slavery poeticisms of our bard Robert Tannahill may seem, at face value, inapplicable to the 1970s. Yet upon closer inspection, they share ancestral DNA with the rugged protest music that would come to define the decade. Namely, the biting, abolitionist fury of punk rock. “GLASGOW’S CITY FATHERS HAD SERIOUS CONCERNS…” Denouncing polite society and the overwrought sounds of early ‘70s rock music in one fell swoop, punk took things back to the basics in the most exhilarating fashion imaginable. The voice of the disaffected youth that’d been numbed into apathy by the charting sounds, its minimalist three chord structure and yelped lyrics gave it an industrial quality while, in the same breath, leaving ample room for creativity. Naturally, that fusion of the two made it a perfect fit with a town that’d

made its name exporting ingenuity to the wider world. However, Paisley’s tight-knit affiliation with punk came through a process of elimination. As is customary with any youth movement, the establishment acted scornfully, downgrading its revolutionary ideals to plain old delinquency. Speaking as the grassroots genre began to instil panic within suburban minds, Glasgow’s Lord Provost took a hard-line stance against the scene declaring, “We have enough hooligans of our own without importing them from south of the border.” Sparked by a sole gig that rocked the city in July of 1977, John McNeill, lead singer of famed Scottish punks The Zips correlates Glasgow’s decision to outlaw the genre with Paisley’s informally adopted status as a refuge for the new musical form. “Glasgow’s City Fathers had serious concerns about punk and any bands of that ilk wouldn’t be welcome,” ‘Jonzip’ recalls. “In the Sex Pistols’ case, they were banned from even entering the city boundary. These draconian measures came off the back of a rowdy Stranglers gig in the old City Halls. Coupled with local press hysteria and the Pistols’ infamous – but hilarious – appearance on Bill Grundy’s Today Show, the unofficial ban lasted two months. But at local level, it lasted well into ’78 as the pub owners feared losing their licences. Initially, we couldn’t get a gig for love nor money. It was a case of no room at the inn if you played any faster than waltz-speed. “Meanwhile, Paisley was proving to be a hotbed of punk activity. This ‘punk Dunkirk’ between the two towns was achieved via Bruce’s Record

shop in Glasgow, which organised buses to transport gig-goers to the rescheduled shows. “The knock-on effect, though,” John continued, “was to encourage an ever-increasing punk awareness among the youth of Paisley. Which, in retrospect, was to the detriment of Glasgow.” “IT WAS A HOTBED OF TALENT.” Unbeknown to John, there were already idealistic young creatives from Renfrewshire that had set their sights on a life of rallying against the status quo. Among the first wave of acts to decamp to Paisley’s St James Primary School hall to hone their material, Gerry ‘Attrick’ Rodden of Fire Exit remembers all the pieces serendipitously falling into place for them. “I was brought up in Renfrew and I’d always played in bands. They were mostly rock, but I was always into The Stooges and Iggy Pop as well as New York Dolls and all that. They helped it explode over here, so it was just a natural progression into it,” Rodden reminisces. “I was a drummer but I ended up singing in a punk band from 1977 onwards. Somehow, I’ve been in same band for 43 years (laughs). “We formed with a bass player from Paisley and a drummer from Renfrew. After that, we went down to London to record a single, engineered by Pat Collier of The Vibrators,” Gerry beams. An excursion that’d result in him becoming ‘pally’ with Captain Sensible of The Damned – whose October 1976 single New Rose is often cited as the first UK punk single. Alongside a whole host of other luminaries, Fire Exit is MILL 47

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The Zips playing at the Rock Against Racism gig in Paisley TUC Club in Orr Square, Tuesday 12th Dec 1978. The gig was organised by Tommy Kayes, who ran Paisley record label, Groucho Marxist Records. Photographer unknown.

one of many Paisley acts who’d go on to make an impact further afield. Like any illustrious music scene, Paisley’s pivotal role in the wider punk mythology would’ve been impossible without beloved venues for it to orbit around. And in Life After Dark by famed ‘The Hacienda’ DJ Dave Haslam, he cites one such Paisley haunt among a laundry list of iconic epicentres to hear new talent. Discussing this incendiary timeframe, Haslam recalled the “added pleasure of tracking down emerging bands and ending up in a room full of like-minded music fans”. “For some fortunate fans, [they could] embrace these excitements at [Liverpool’s] Eric’s, The Factory in Manchester, The Limit in Sheffield, 48 MILL

the Nite Club or Valentino’s in Edinburgh, the Bungalow Bar or The Sandpiper in Nottingham. “Some months or years later”, he continued, “there could also be the satisfaction and a host of memories gained from having seen bands fresh, close-up and hungry, on their way to a career playing major halls and selling millions of albums.” A genre that was defined by its patrons as much as it was by its performers, Neil ‘Tam Pax’ Mclean looks back upon the original incarnation of The Bungalow fondly. “A maestro by the name of Louden Temple saw what was going on beforehand and opened the doors to some of the most incredible bands coming out at the time. Not only was

The Bungalow a haven for the local punks and held infamous Saturday afternoon jamming sessions, but night-time made it a home to a who’s who of the top punk and new wave groups of that period,” Neil proclaims. “The list of artists and bands playing The Bungalow was endless. It was a hotbed of talent. We were all regulars and the great thing was that you could mix with the groups. It really added to the atmosphere.” THE SKIDS, PSYCHEDLIC FURS, THE ASSOCIATES, ALTERED IMAGES… Having played in the original Bungalow “about three times” before performing in its modern-day, Shuttle Street incarnation years on, Gerry

Billy Idol, photo courtesy of Neil Mclean

FEATURES

“

The Defiant Pose, taken in a Seedhill potato yard on Scott's Road beside the Hawkhead Cemetery during a video shoot for the a track called Fashion. In the photo: Joe McGlynn, David Cameron, Chad Adams, Blair Macdonald, and Linda Scobie. Photo from David Cameron.

Attrick cites one instance where a Fire Exit set was taken in by soon-to-be illustrious onlookers. “One time, Jim Kerr [of Simple Minds] and Billy Sloan [BBC Radio Scotland DJ] were sitting the end of the bar watching us.” Counting The Skids, Psychedelic Furs, The Associates, Altered Images, Chelsea, Slaughter and the Dogs, Echo and the Bunnymen, Aztec Camera, The Fall, Primal Scream, Teardrops Explode, The Zips and Belle Stars among the alumni, Simon Goddard’s ‘Simply Thrilled’ – a history of Glasgow’s Postcard Records – spotlighted one particularly noteworthy set from Orange Juice as they barrelled towards the success that awaited them, claiming that “during the ramshackle set, a third of the audience took their leave, but those remaining demanded two encores.” Never intended to be middle-ofthe-road, it’s a story that exemplifies what punk, post-punk and new wave

was and still is all about. It might not be for everyone, but those who loved it will cherish it like nothing else. Placed in exemplary company as far as seminal venues go, Paisley’s position as an outpost for punk is also indebted to a now obsolete hotel. Known as the Silver Thread, Made In Paisley’s Caroline Gormley would later learn that her dad – the chef – would sneak skint young punks through the backdoor to see their idols up close and personal. “My dad died five-years-ago and it was a taxi driver who told me that he’d let him in. He’d never mentioned it and I was in the back of the car greetin’,” she reveals. As expected, Neil Mclean has nothing but halcyon memories of his time spent in this hallowed, Blackhall Street venue. “The bands that played there were like a case study in punk talent, featuring the likes of The Rezillos, Generation X, The Adverts, Boomtown Rats, Elvis Costello,

I REMEMBER US ALL SITTING WITH BILLY IDOL AND HIS GROUP BEFORE THEIR GIG AND WHEN BILLY GOT UP TO DO THE SOUND CHECK, I ASKED HIM TO PLAY ANARCHY [IN THE UK] AND HE DID!"

Johnny & the Self Abusers (later to become Simple Minds), Buzzcocks and more. There were also rumours of Sid Vicious drinking there one night, apparently sussing it out for the band’s upcoming ‘alias tour’ [as S.P.O.T.S]. There are many fantastic memories from these times; Rose and Drew McDowall – who’d go on to join Poems and Strawberry Switchblade – were regulars along with Jim Kerr and the Glasgow cohorts. I remember us all sitting with Billy Idol and his group [Generation X] before their gig and when Billy got up to do the sound check, I asked him to play Anarchy [In The UK] and he did! Also, everyone lined up at the bar to get MILL 49

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their mouths pierced for £1. You sucked on an ice cube for a minute before big Kenny Clash slammed a safety pin into your gub! These were fantastic times where young kids who liked the scene could actually see these groups in the flesh.” Spawning the short but acclaimed discography of Paisley’s Groucho Marxist Records, its figurehead Tommy Kayes would then go on to mint the Paisley chapter of Rock Against Racism. Echoing the movement that was led by The Clash, X-Ray Spex and Jimmy Pursey at the famous gig in London’s Victoria Park, Paisley would have its own RAR shows at Paisley TUC Club in Orr Square. In turn, setting the stage for what The Zips’ vocalist

Often cited as the first UK punk single, New Rose by The Damned, released in October 1976.

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fondly remembers as “the first and last Ferguslie Park Festival” on 23rd June 1979. “It consisted of local boys, The Fegs, Mentol Errors and Defiant Pose along with Dialetics and Liberty Bodice,” McNeil remembers. “The bands performed on a flatbed truck with an under-powered PA, in incessant pouring rain. The riot police were holed up in their vans, they were spoiling for a fight but didn’t want to get wet! The review in NME, was full of social comment, but there was precious little about the music.” A LEGACY – AND NO SHORTAGE OF UNBREAKABLE BONDS While that particular publication didn’t place an onus on what Paisley had to offer, Renfrewshire has ties to the proud punk tradition of the fanzine. “Take a bow, I.T.A.E (It Ticked and Exploded),” says John, “created by Robin Gibson, a schoolboy from Johnstone, who would go on to become deputy-editor of UK music weekly, Sounds.” As the punk ban gradually petered out, Paisley was no longer synonymous with the sound of resistance, but that hasn’t dampened its legacy one bit. Decades later, an ex-pat of this fruitful scene would later go on to discover Paisley’s next great musical export. Initially making his way into music as the former

bass player of The Mentol Errors, Brendan Moon is often pinpointed as the man that discovered Paolo Nutini. Born in Erskine but indebted to the experiences he had here in his formative years, Moon remains committed to nurturing local talent from Morsecode Management and Studios’ base in Hillington. For those who lived it, Paisley’s synergy with the punk movement wasn’t a moment in time. Instead, it became the guiding force that realigned their perspective on the world, fostering no shortage of unbreakable bonds along the way. “I met Arturo Bassick from The Lurkers all those years ago in The Silver Thread and yet he’s still playing, we’re still mates,” Gerry Attrick affirms. “We all still meet up and did a gig with them and Menace at Christmas. It was magic. It’s just amazing how you stay connected to these folks.” Transporting Paisley from a humble satellite town to the home away from home for a pioneering genre, the spirit of those days still pulsates through the very heart of the community, just waiting to be reignited. Thanks to David Cameron, Caroline Gormley, Fred McNeill, Neil Mclean, Jonzip McNeill, Gerry Attrick and Jackie Mills for making this feature possible.

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CULTURE

the sound of renfrewshire

THE DEEP SHINING SEA Veterans of the scene, we spoke to The Deep Shining Sea’s Stevie Hillcoat about influences, physical copies and Paisley’s musical rebirth.

How did the band come together? “Jamie (McLachlan, drums) and I were in a band called Lemonhaze that split in 2017, but we stuck together. I had an album’s worth of demos recorded but we needed a bassist. We’d played with Gareth before but eventually lost touch. Then, as fate would have it, Jamie bumped into him at a St Mirren game!” You’re following on from a long lineage of acclaimed three pieces. Is a trio the perfect set-up? “The core parts of the music are all there and it’s great for keeping tight. That being said, having another creative musician onboard would be ideal. For the time being, I sing as well as playing rhythm and lead guitar which has its limitations. However, it does provide a punchier, no-nonsense sound.” Your demos have sold out on cassette. Is it important to keep physical media alive within the digital age? “Definitely. They were all handmade on a very small budget and the money raised financed the recording, mixing, mastering and digital distribution of our new single. Most of

the time, having music and merchandise to sell at gigs is the only way up-and-coming artists can make money. I also have a slight obsession with tapes, so it was a bit self-indulgent.” Would you agree that Paisley’s music scene has been prospering in recent years? “We think it’s fantastic. It’s been a long struggle to get here, but the venue owners, organisations and bands made it happen. For example, the SAMA’s Paisley Takeover didn’t just happen on a whim, it’s the culmination of the work to actively better our music scene.” Listening to your latest single Girl There’s Something You Should Know, there’s hints of everything from British indie to stateside troubadours such as Mac Demarco. Who would you count among your main inspirations? “For that track, the vibrato guitar definitely hints towards Mac Demarco. However, I’d have to attribute that style to Connan Mockasin. He’s a big inspiration. As a band, our modern inspirations come from The National, The War on Drugs and Bombay Bicycle Club. With all that aside, we ultimately pull from our old favourites such as Oasis, Teenage Fanclub, The Smiths, The Stone Roses and, as always, Paisley’s finest band, The Close Lobsters.” Do you envision 2020 as a breakout year for the band? “It’s all going to depend on how much work and effort we put in. Since January. We’ve been at it hammer and tongs with no intentions of slowing down. We’re just going to keep promoting our music with the hope that everyone will jump in and come along for the ride.” Visit thedeepshiningsea.bandcamp.com

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CULTURE

UNDER THE COVERS

Confined to their sitting rooms rather than their second home of the stage, a crop of Scotland’s finest musical talent told us what iconic tracks they love to put their own spin on.

Father John Misty

RYAN HUNTER

Fabric Bear “Before lockdown happened, we were gearing up for a full UK tour in April/May and we’d been perfecting our version of About You Now by Sugababes. We’d winged it a couple times in recent live shows in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, but we’ve finally got it 100% down recently. But oh well, plans change! We’ll maybe just learn all their greatest hits for our rescheduled tour dates instead.”

LISA KOWALSKI

MATTHEW MCGOLDRICK

The Vegan Leather, Paisley “Just before the quarantine hit, I thought it would make sense to go out and buy an acoustic guitar and get a haircut. Y’know, the essentials. I also had the thought that every other musician had when the impending reality of a quarantine was starting to become very real – time to write my masterpiece. But in reality, I’ve just been covering Father John Misty songs. The one I’ve been playing the most is I Went to the Store One Day. I just love the cool complex chord progressions used throughout, it helps to break up the monotony of self-isolation.”

Paisley “My favourite non-original song to play live is Dancing in the Dark by Bruce Springsteen. I think it has a very relatable and inspiring message of continuing to work hard and believe in yourself and your dreams even when things don’t seem to be working out. I also love the passion Springsteen sings it with and how accurately the lyrics portray hopelessness and hopefulness at the same time.”

KROOQ

DAVID ROBERTS

Burst, Johnstone “I think my favourite song to play live is Elton John’s Rocketman. It’s a song everyone knows the words to, be it from actually listening to him or watching the film. It’s a nice way to bring a crowd together and an attention grabber as well. Personally, I like it when people sing back the words to me because it shows that they’re having a good time. Even when I’m opening for bands of different genres, they still sing up and have a good time and that’s why I love playing it.” 54 MILL

Paisley “We love playing our version of One Kiss by Calvin Harris & Dua Lipa. You can hear the version on our 3rd Paisley Session on YouTube (https://bit.ly/2OtDmQ9). As a bunch of tape fanatics, we’re big on slowing things down, and One Kiss is already a groovy tune. But when you take it to a neo-soul meter, it opens up in a unique way. It maintains the constant pulse, but shifts from a dance hit to a headbopper. We like woozy.”

BENJAMIN MCGIRR

State Actors, Paisley “I usually find myself strumming my way through Rebel Yell by Billy Idol whenever I pick up my guitar. The song has an outrageously massive chorus that just keeps coming which makes it really fun to sing and often my dad will join in if he hears me playing it. The whole thing reminds me of Halloween and, obviously, wrings with 80’s nostalgia.”

RYAN CLARK

Catholic Action, Glasgow “I generally don’t get the chance to perform non-original songs very often. Our guitarist Andrew lent me one of his before we went into lockdown. So, I’ve spent a lot of time trying to learn how to play some of my favourite songs to entertain myself and sometimes, the dog. Having said that, I’m a huge karaoke fan and would have to say my favourite non-original song to perform is Don McLean’s American Pie. Clocking in at eight-and-a-half minutes long, it’s a sure-fire way to not only bore your audience and test your memory in terms of lyrics, but you also get your money’s worth.”

KITTI

Paisley “For me, my favourite cover to play is Hopelessly Devoted to You from the movie/ musical spectacular, Grease! I love taking musical theatre songs and changing them up and putting a little spice in them - they're always written so well and the chords are always in amazing progressions compared to modern pop songs. It's the one I love playing live the most as everyone sings along! Even the mums!” Stream kitti’s cover now on her Young, Careless & Free EP now.

MILL’S TOP 10 COVER VERSIONS Compiled by Robert Blair (Editor)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

WILSON PICKETT Born To Be Wild Steppenwolf cover

JOEY BADA$$

When Thugs Cry Cover of Prince’s When Doves Cry

THE SENSATIONAL ALEX HARVEY BAND Delilah Tom Jones cover

FRANK OCEAN

American Wedding Rework of The Eagles’ Hotel California

THE METERS

Wichita Lineman Glen Campbell cover

FLORENCE + THE MACHINE

Take Care Drake & Rihanna cover

SADE

Why Can’t We Live Together? Timmy Thomas cover

SCOTT WALKER If You Go Away Jacque Brel cover

STEVIE WONDER Light My Fire The Doors Cover

GROVER WASHINGTON JR Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Marvin Gaye Cover

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CULTURE

BOOK REVIEW SCABBY QUEEN by Kirstin Innes

After winning Not The Booker Prize with Fishnet in 2015, Lochwinnoch-based Kirstin Innes has exceeded the anticipation surrounding her new novel, Scabby Queen, In fact, five years later, she’s delivered an even better novel than her protagonist, Clio Campbell, does an album in this tome. Clio, musician, political activist, feminist, takes her life not long before her 51st birthday in her friend Ruth’s spare bedroom and the 400 pages of Innes’ writing reflects on the five decades of Campbell’s life through the eyes of those that she impacted, whether positively or negatively. With a desire to learn more about this beguiling extrovert, it’s impossible to set this book aside. The development of characters is thorough, with Sammi, Shiv and Xanthe being saviours in the novel, exposing the deep-rooted misgivings or hypocritical sides to Clio Campbell. In turn, rendering her as something beyond that musician with the one hit track about the poll tax. We grow attached to these characters and are keen to see how they progress throughout the novel, although jumping back and forth in time, with each of the names imperative to this story. In particular, Sammi has a strong voice throughout Scabby Queen, spending most of the novel struggling to accept and then let go of her past when living with fellow activists Spider and Fran. Like many in the novel, we crave more from Clio Campbell than she is willing to offer, and Innes’ inclusion of times of uprising such as the G8 protests in Genoa, the poll tax riots and Brexit makes it riveting reading. Fierce and thorough with many rich and complex characters, Scabby Queen is a timely contemporary read. Scabby Queen is available now, published by 4th Estate.

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Curated by Keira Brown, co-producer of the Paisley Book Festival

Photo by Becky Duncan

LITERATURE

WHAT THE MILL REMEMBERS. by Kathryn Metcalfe The map of memen pore and measure. Spread over gleaming mahogany Being built red brick and mortar. Everyone came to see. Boilers burn. Water sings in my pipes fuelling my vast heart. Bells ring. Thousands birthed through my doors Six till two-two till ten. Machines mute. Pigeons croon, rats dart round my dusty creaking limbo. Footsteps echo through my derelict floors. Men in suits and hard hats. Computers hum Zen like in my head. Telephone voices buzz Tinny music pounds a mechanised beat. A gym in my basement. People pass to and fro so quietly. Carpets muffle their feet.

The Paisley Book Festival is a partnership between Renfrewshire Leisure and Renfrewshire Council as part of Future Paisley. Future Paisley is an ambitious approach to cultural regeneration that harnesses the power of culture to support positive social change.