Re-Gen Issue 119 by The Genn Newspaper

Christmas and New Year Issue

ISSUE 119 We at Simply Publishing, Home of Re-Gen, wish you a Merry Christmas and a very happy 2014

Next Edition 10th January 2014 10-11

Community Groups Picture special full of festive cheer

16-17

24-25

Parly Patter Read the views of the people who represent you

Festive Greetings Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

30-32

Re-GEN SPORT with Tom Scott Today and looking back at 2013

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PUTTING GLASGOW FIRMLY ON THE MAP Countdown starts on big year for Glasgow NEW Year is a tradition that is celebrated all over the world, not only as a chance to reflect on the 12 months that have just passed, but also as an opportunity for a new beginning. 2014 will be an incredible year for Glasgow as we look forward to hosting the Commonwealth Games. When it was first announced and incredible 8 years ago that we as a city were one of the

strong candidates to host the games, many thought that it would become a white elephant, and fail to deliver the promised regeneration of the North and East of the city. But a lot of hard work later, and some inspirational leadership from many within the local community, we have started to see the physical environment change. Some big improvements have been made already. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Friday 20th December 2013

Countdown starts on big year for Glasgow CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 We now have some of the best sporting facilities in the countr y with the new Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, a fully refurbished Toll cross Swimming and Lei sure Centre, a brand new National Hockey Centre at Glasgow Green and some other huge improvements in Scotstoun a little bit further West and Hampden Park to the South. These projects in them selves have helped ensure that when Glasgow is called upon to deliver the games, the athletes competing will be getting the first class treatment that they are used to on the world stage. It is not just the sporting facilities that have been transformed, with the brand new athlete’s village of 70 0 new homes being built in Dalmarnock. The reason why many critics have said that Glasgow was such an appealing city to host the games was not necessarily because of our ability to build the best facilities and venues where the competition will be held. Something more impor-

tant has been a constant strand throughout the bid ding and that is what is go ing to happen in the build up to, and the period after the games themselves. Unfortunately, we have become ver y accustomed to politicians and others making promises that rare ly, or sometimes acciden tally get kept. The legacy from the Com monwealth Games in Edin burgh from 19 8 6 is patchy at best. Those games were over 25 years ago yet it is not ver y likely that they will be remembered for the benefits that were brought to the capital. Legacy projects were more piecemeal in their ap proach, but thankfully, that has changed. The team at Glasgow 2014 have been relentless in their focus on legacy, and there is no doubt that in 25 years time, people will still feel the benefits of the new infrastructure in place. And it is not just the sporting facilities and new athlete’s village that we have seen getting built. Infrastructure projects like the completion of the M74, the new Dalmarnock Train Station and The Clyde Gateway have meant new jobs, easier travel and im proved opportunities for business. This is evidenced by the recent news that the brand

new, purpose built head quarters for Police Scotland will be built in the local area, bringing in over 10 0 0 new jobs. Having such a prestig ious and important building project would not have hap pened if the co - operation and work of local politicians and national agencies saw the benefits of the new in frastructure. This will provide a lasting legacy to the city well be yond the competition itself. And only this week we saw the work begin on the new Dalmarnock Hub, a centre that will bring to gether health ser vices, shops, community facilities and a first class community centre. This is, again, an example of what can happen in a lo cal area when there is mo mentum towards improving the community. But for this editor, one of the most exciting prospects about 2014 for Glas gow is the opportunities that are being created for its people. Glasgow has one of the worst records in the Western world for social exclu sion, health inequalities, chronic liver disease and other poverty related sta tistics. The generation that was so harmed by the deindustrialisation of the Clydeside has failed to fully recover

and ill health and unem ployment mean that some parts of our city have a life expectancy that is so low you would think it was from the times of Charles Dickens. The Commonwealth Games was never going to solve this problem single handedly, but it has started to make a dent. Programmes of volun teering, skills courses, em ployability classes, funding for healthy activities no matter what your age or ability, equipment for young people so that they spend their time in a more social ly useful way and job and training opportunities are just as important as making sure Usain Bolt and Jessica Ennis have the correct type of running surface. Other big events hap pening next year include: the Scottish Independence Referendum, the 10 0th An niversar y since the start of the Great War, the Winter Olympics in Russia and the FIFA World Cup in Brazil, the withdrawal of British and American troops from Afghanistan after a 13 year deployment. The prospect of having a competition that the world will be watching is a lot of pressure for the city. But it is also a huge opportunity. Let’s make 2014 a year to remember, where Glasgow will truly flourish!

Limited strike action planned by Scottish Fire-fighters THE Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has been informed that members of the Fire Brigades Union in Scotland will hold industrial action short of a strike on 24 December and between 27 and 29 December. The first period of industrial action will consist of a refusal to work voluntary overtime by firefighters and control room personnel between 7pm and midnight on Tuesday 24 December. The second period will consist of a refusal to work voluntary overtime by firefighters, and will not include personnel working in control, between 7pm on Friday 27 December and 7pm on Sunday 29 December. Members of the public should continue to call 999 if there is an emergency as contingency arrangements are in place and throughout the period of industrial action short of a strike SFRS will continue to respond to all emergency calls as normal. Our current safety campaign - Join Scotland’s Fight Against Fire - highlights that many fires

in the home could be prevented if some simple precautions had been taken, so everyone can lower the risk in their homes and raise the chance of everyone getting to safety if there is a fire. Cooking appliances should never be left unattended while they are in use, smoking materials should be fully extinguished, and anyone smoking or cooking while under the influence of alcohol must take extreme care. Every home should be protected by working smoke alarms, which buy vital time for people to escape and for help to arrive if there is a fire in the home. Chief Officer Alasdair Hay said: “The industrial action being taken by the Fire Brigades Union relates to an on-going dispute between the FBU and the UK Government. “This is not a dispute with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and we will continue to engage in constructive and positive dialogue with both the Fire Brigades Union and the Scottish Government in relation to the pension dispute.”

Friday 20th December 2013

North Glasgow Boxing Club have a champion in Nicola THE boys and girls of North Glasgow Boxing club paid a very special tribute to local fundraiser Nicola Wilkie after she was invited along to attend one of their regular training sessions. Nicola, from Croftfoot, decided to help the club fundraise after she heard they needed new equipment to help the aspiring fighters train. She decided to get sponsorship to run a half marathon, earning her the nickname ‘the roadrunner.’ So far, her efforts have raised £1200 meaning the club can afford new tracksuits, t-shirts, gloves and pads. John Reid who runs the club on Ashgill Road, Milton said: “It is great to have the support of someone like Nicola. Because of her efforts we

have been able to get some brilliant equipment. “She wanted to get involved after she heard about our honesty bucket, where the adults drop off £2, or whatever they could afford, to help with the costs of running the club. The idea that you won’t be questioned or embarrassed means that you don’t need to miss a class. That is when she wanted to do her bit to help out as well. “I can’t thank her enough, on behalf of the club, Nicola you are a champion.” North Glasgow Boxing Club is open on Tuesdays to Fridays and classes for kids are free. John added: “Boxing is not only great fun but it keeps you physically fit and teaches the kids discipline. Even the adults have a good time so why not try it out?”

Police launch murder hunt after 53 year found dead in Cranhill Park

POLICE Scotland has launched a murder inquiry following the death of a woman in Cranhill last Saturday, 14 December 2013. Around 0740 hours on Saturday morning, the body of 53 year-old Jean Campbell was found within Cranhill Park, Bellrock Street, Cranhill. She had been walking her German Shepherd dog at the time but Police are still trying to establish exactly what time she left her home. A post mortem examination has taken place and officers are now treating the death as murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Colin Carey of Major Investigation Team West said today: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing in the local area to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the death and a motive for this murder. Officers are carrying out door to door enquiries and checking CCTV footage in an effort to gather any further information that will assist this investigation. “Detectives are currently trying to piece together Mrs Campbell’s last movements. She was last seen by a family member around 5pm on Friday night, so I would urge anyone who saw her between

then and Saturday morning to come forward. Her German Shepherd type dog was with her in the park, so we are trying to establish when she left her house to take the dog for a walk. “I would also like to reassure the local people that there are extra police patrols in the area, and anyone with any concerns should speak to officers. “I would urge anyone with information, who hasn’t yet come forward to police to contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively CRIMESTOPPERS can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”

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Friday 20th December 2013

A romantic holiday season for you, you feel a fire in your belly, a drive for love and you will be snogging a few under the mistletoe this Christmas, but remember to keep it light hearted as you will awaken to see your prince may really be a frog!

There is some good news winging it way to you now, good news around your children or younger siblings, it is a time to make merry and let your hair down a little, who knows you may even enjoy it!

It is a time to trust your intuition, as you honour and follow your heart you will be guided by Jupiter the planet of luck who appears around the 27th, helping to bring in abundance in many forms. You may be drawn to give to an animal charity which also brings a little TLC your way.

It does not happen very often, but there are times when you don’t look at the detail> this my friend is good news as it means your are beginning to relax and lighten up a little, your gut instincts are good over the festive season, so trust who and where it is telling you to be with and all will be well.

As one of the sociable signs you love a good natter, but it is also a good time to spend quiet time, to think, preferably in an area where you feel safe and relaxed as this helps you gain prospective and allows success and victory over past challenges.

As the sun pre-pairs to leave your sign you feel a little lacking in energy, a temporary blip as you come back in no time and are ready to change your life for the better, some of you think that a change of home is on the cards at the very least changes within the home, there is good news in connection to children too.

Some of you will have felt the effect of the full moon as it rules your sign, your emotions are at an all-time high as you are suddenly aware of a situation which has been out of your radar and you need to know that it is safe to stand in your own power and wisdom, your children are safe as are you!

As the sun moves into your sign there is a party feel about the energy it brings, gone are the past issues which ailed you, and a lighter and optimistic phase appears, time to let the well-kept secret out of the bag and let that wonderful sense of humour out to pay.

There may be a lot of focus on health at the moment as you seem to be aiming to improve it and the time is right for this new regime, if you can avoid chemically based sweet products at this time of year, you have cracked and we look forward to a healthier you in the New Year.

One to over think things in family matters, you have to let go of what you cannot change, let this be a month to focus on you and the bigger picture and you will feel a new sense of purpose and direction, try to let your hair down and have some fun.

Making your New Year’s Resolutions Let’s face it: the truth about traditional New Years resolutions is that they don’t really work. The secret reason why this happens is that most resolutions are essentially fancy-sounding ’shoulds.’ But, good intentions alone rarely result in lasting change. Good intentions by themselves are signals that we’re trying to be further along in motivation, readiness or willingness levels than we really are. Making a New Years resolution based on good intentions alone is therefore a sure way to feel inadequate, guilty, shameful, hopeless, or stupid. Because these are the ways you’ll feel when you ultimately recognise that you didn’t succeed in making your resolution come true. Fortunately, there IS a way to make New Years resolutions that have a legitimate, fighting chance of coming to pass. There are four secrets to this: 1) Know the sequence by which change happens; 2) Be impeccably honest with yourself about where you are in that sequence regarding the particular change you want to make; 3) Select your ‘change commitments’ based on where you ARE in that sequence, not based on where you WANT to be; 4) Address the blocks which may arise as you enact your ‘change commitment plan.’ If you follow these secrets, you will inevitably change in the ways you desire. Change occurs in a predictable sequence. If you try to proceed out of sequence, you are likely to be inefficient and frustrated at best, and feel hopeless, defeated and give up at worst. The change sequence is: 1) Gleams; 2) Commitment; 3) Preparation; 4) Training; 5) Manifestation; 6) Anchoring; 7) Teamwork, Leadership. 1. GLEAMS: Wanting to want. Wanting the end (the goal) but not the means (what you’ll have to do to achieve the goal). Also known as wishes, musing, seeing the light but not feeling the heat, pre-willingness, making excuses about why the goal can’t be achieved, being too afraid

to take the risks necessary to make change possible. The trap here is not being in ‘gleams’ (this is the starting place of all dreams!), it’s thinking you’re somewhere else. So, if you’re not yet ready to shift from gleams to commitment, just accept this for now and decide which changes you are presently ready to commit to. Or, commit to identifying what blocks you from making a commitment to change in this way, and deal with those blocks instead of committing to the goal itself yet. Example: “I currently do not exercise, I sure would like to, but if I’m really honest with myself, I do not intend to start exercising in the next six months.” 2. COMMITMENT: Wanting. Also known as embracing a goal, becoming willing, becoming ready, becoming motivated. Example: “I currently do not exercise but I am committed to making exercise a part of the fabric of my life in the next six months.” 3. PREPARATION: Priorities realignment. Also known as changing your habits, priorities or lifestyle to make time and energy to follow through on your commitment. Includes decisions about resources you’ll use to help you change. Initial attempts to succeed at your commitment remain limited until

The Re-Gen Crossword You seem to be thinking of yesteryears at this time, and you need to focus on what is going on right in front of you, there are decisions to be made about career matters and you need to finish tasks that have slipped under the radar, time to put these to bed and you will be free to have some well earned fun.

There is a feeling of a new adventure for you within your planetary alignment. A feeling of “I can do it” and of course you can, just one little thing, the devil is in the detail, and if you look at this new opportunity with this in mind, trust what you are seeing and make your move.

priorities realignment occurs. Example: “I’ve made time in my schedule to exercise, have decided on the type of exercise that’s best for me to begin with, and have secured the resources necessary to exercise in this way.” 4. TRAINING: Learning how to use your selected resources to make the desired habit change or new capability possible to achieve. This is where the change process moves into full swing. How honest your commitment is shows through the extent to which you consistently follow the ‘training regimen.’ For an example of this, check out the scenes in the first Rocky movie, where Stallone sticks to his training routine come rain or shine. And, also like Stallone’s character, one can become stuck in an addiction or obsession with the training, causing other important aspects of one’s life to be neglected. Example: “In starting to exercise more regularly I am learning how to warm up and cool down, how to pace myself and how to avoid hurting myself or reducing my enjoyment of exercising by not over-reaching my abilities. I’m developing new discipline 5. MANIFESTATION: Repeatedly and consistently applying your training toward the committed goal.

When self-defeating programming, patterns or wound haven’t yet surfaced, they do so here. As success starts to happen, these questions often arise, consciously or subliminally: “Is it okay to be successful?” “Do I want this amount of good?” Many people who can’t handle success selfdestruct at this point in the change process, because wanting was safe but having is not. So, at this point it is frequently important to ask, “What are my blocks to sustaining higher levels of good in my life?” Example: “I currently exercise regularly, I have fun doing it, and I am still working out the kinks in my exercise programme. I have only begun exercising regularly in the last six months. I’m starting to see results, but I know that exercise is not yet a permanent habit for me.” 6. ANCHORING: The new pattern/ habit becomes rooted, anchored, resistant to backsliding and graceful and fine-tuned. In other words, it becomes second nature. New habits spontaneously persist, or are rapidly returned to even in times of stress or disruption. Example: “I have been exercising consistently for longer than six months. It’s feeling like second nature to me. I’m beginning to feel some expertise at it.” 7. TEAMWORK: Often, a sense of individual mastery leads to wanting to create something with others who have mastery that’s larger than can be manifested alone. Fears of inter-dependence often arise at this point in the change process. This can lead to believing that you now can sustain the changes you’ve made by yourself. Example: “I like to exercise with others and find myself modifying the way I exercise so that I can do it as a group activity more of the time.” 8. MENTORING: Leadership. Taking others under your wing to coach. Example: “I feel so comfortable with my relationship to exercise and to doing it with others that I’m now enjoying being in a leadership, teaching or midwifing position with others.” Please feel free to email any comments or suggestions to justathoughtregen@aol.co.uk

CHECK FOR ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

Across

7. Type of fruit named for it’s colour. (7) 10. Stick or staff (3) 11. Converts bare land into tree-filled area (9) 12. Forever (5) 14. Gathered slowly, bit by bit (7) 16. List showing education and work experience (7) 18. Frock (5) 19. One who has departed secretly to avoid capture (9) 20. Repent (3) 21. Mass of eggs (5) 22. Demobilize (7)

Down

1. Side piece of a gateway (8) 2. Fine debris on a beach (4) 3. Parsi fire temple (6) 4. Origin (6) 5. Absurdity (8) 6. Minerals (4) 8. Ensured safety (11) 13. A lumberman (8) 15. Dish out (8) 17. Flourish (6) 18. Confinement (6) 19. Vaulted recess (4) 20. Unique (4)

Friday 20th December 2013

Work begins on new Dalmarnock site Local community to feel benefits of Commonwealth Games legacy “for a generation” CONSTRUCTION officially began this week on the new community centre in the heart of the East End. The community-owned Dalmarnock Legacy Hub, a new social recreational and educational centre in the shadow of the Emirates Arena, marks the next stage in the regeneration of the East End of Glasgow thanks to the Games. The building will house a new all-purpose community hall, a nursery, GP surgery, pharmacy, training and educational facilities, a convenience store and community café. The facilities were decided by the local community. Construction work will support over 60 jobs and four apprenticeships, while 55 new long term jobs will be created at the Hub. The Scottish Government is providing £2.05 million investment in the project, alongside £1.23 million from Clyde Gateway while Glasgow City Council sold the site, worth £200,000, for a nominal £1 to project managers, the People’s Development Trust. Commonwealth Games

Minister Shona Robison was joined by local school children, the People’s Development Trust and representatives from Glasgow City Council and Clyde Gateway to break ground on the site. Shona Robison said: “The impact of the Commonwealth Games will reach across Scotland but the epicentre is here, in Glasgow’s East End. Alongside the world class sporting facilities of the Emirates Arena, this new building will ensure that legacy is felt in the very communities at the heart of the Commonwealth Games bid, providing new community facilities people of all ages can benefit from. “The Hub will be central to the community and their drive to improve the East End of Glasgow well beyond 2014. It will create jobs, growth and services to benefit the whole of area and the investment in the Dalmarnock Legacy Hub will be felt for a generation.” Neil MacDonald, Chair of Clyde Gateway said, “We are delighted to be involved in this project which will deliver a last-

ing Legacy for the current Dalmarnock community, who will see their aspirations achieved by the delivery of this building and the services it will provide. It will also act as a beacon for the new residents who will make their homes in the Games Village and the other housing developments across the area”. Councillor Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “I am delighted to see the beginning of work on the Dalmarnock Legacy Hub, a building right at the heart of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and one that will deliver real benefits to everyone in Dalmarnock after 2014. Glasgow City Council has been working with all our project partners to progress this project, one that provides an emblem of the great economic and social benefits that preparing for – and hosting – the Games have brought and will bring to us. I look forward to the Dalmarnock Community Hub being a fantastic community asset for decades to come.”

Kids shine bright in ‘Parkhead’s Got Talent’ PARKHEAD Housing Association held their third annual variety show this month that showcases the great and the good of the Parkhead community. And it wasn’t just the roof that was raised by the audience at Quarrybrae School, but the bar as well by this year’s performers. The standard of those taking part again exceeded even the most optimistic audience member. The East End’s own Simon Cowell and Director of Parkhead HA, Jim Strang, said: “My congratulations to everyone who took part. There has been a lot of hard work over the past few months since the first audition in September. “The build up to the show and the performance itself is not just about the performers showcasing themselves, but also about building their confidence and meeting new friends. “A big thank you for all the staff and volunteers who helped make the show such a success.” Auditions were held in September and a fantastic group of talented kids were assem-

bled including dance groups from Quarrybrae and Saracen Primary Schools, local Singers Talia Webb and Karli McGuire and a fantastic band from Bannerman High School, Rebound. The standard of the performances was great with the kids receiving a well deserved standing ovation at the end. The show itself was compered by up and coming comedian, Stephen Buchanan and

was very well received by the local community. This year’s show also provided event and music production students from Glasgow Kelvin College the chance to hone their skills by providing assistance with the technical aspects of the show. The Association hopes to continue to hold similar events every year to build upon the amount of talent in the area.

Yvonne Küçük, Regeneration Manager for the Peo ple’s Development Trust, said: “The Legacy Hub will be our first communit y as set wholly owned and op erated by local people. I am hopeful that this

project will inspire neigh bouring organisations to become the catalyst for change in their own com munities. This project should only be the star t of our work to increase the confidence

and capacit y of local ple and ultimately which will suppor t encourage them to the first steps in their journey in bringing term benefits to their communities.”

peo one and take own long own

MSP delivers Christmas cheer to Royal Mail Posties PAUL Martin MSP has visited Royal Mail’s Glasgow G31 delivery office to pass on Christmas wishes and encouragement to the postmen and women at their busiest time of year. Mr Martin was shown round the office by local Delivery Office Manager, John McKale, and was introduced to the postmen and women who are working hard sorting and delivering all cards and parcels in the area in the run-up to Christmas. Paul Martin MSP said: “It was great to meet the dedicated, hard-working Royal Mail postmen and women at the G31 delivery office and to see first-hand just how much effort they put into delivering for people at this time of year. “Postmen and women do such an important job at this time of year. I like to thank them for their efforts and wish them all the best over the busy festive period.” John McKale, Royal Mail Delivery Office Manager at G31, said: “Christmas is the busiest time of year for Royal Mail. Our people pull out all the stops throughout the year to ensure mail is delivered quickly, but even more so over the busy festive period.

We are grateful that Paul came along to see the hard work that goes on behind the scenes.” “Our people do a fantastic job at this time of year to ensure that friends and families stay in touch through their Christmas greetings and gifts. We’d like to remind our customers to post early so that friends and family have longer to enjoy their Christmas greetings!” Customers can help Royal Mail ensure that all their letters, cards and parcels are delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible by taking a few easy steps:

• Use a 1st Class stamp! – Post 1st Class for just 60p and have your Christmas card delivered the next day – anywhere in the UK. • Post early! – Avoid disappointment by posting your cards and parcels early. The last posting dates this Christmas are: December 18 for 2nd Class mail; December 20 for 1st Class mail; December 23 for Special Delivery. • Use a postcode! – A clearly addressed card or parcel, with a postcode, and return address on the back of the envelope, will ensure quick and efficient delivery.

Friday 20th December 2013

New Bikes in Time for Christmas Thanks to Bike Station and ng homes WE can all remember the joy of getting a new bike for Christmas and that’s exactly what these young people from Elmvale Primary school in Springburn experienced when ng homes and the Bike Station swapped their old bikes for reconditioned ones. ng homes and the Bike Station have been working together in North Glasgow to provide newly reconditioned bikes to local children at Elmvale Primary School and Saracen Primary School as part of the wider bike readiness scheme. The Bike Station’s ‘Bike Swap’ programme works by swapping childrens older bikes with refurbished cycles that have been matched to individuals to ensure correct sizing. Greg Cann, ng sports legacy Co-ordinator said: “As part of our ongoing partnership, we were delighted that Glasgow Bike Station offered us the chance to be part of their excellent Bike Swap programme. This was a fantastic opportunity for us to develop the bike & cycling links with two of our local schools as well as ensuring local children continue to have access to safe bikes they can use in the community.” Eric Kewku Akoto Anim (pictured), wanted a new bike because his old one was too small for him and he was delighted with his ‘new’ bike saying: “It’s great, thank you!’

Springburn (East)

Email: info@nghomes.net

Ned Donaldson House, 50 Reidhouse Street Springburn, Glasgow. G21 4LS Tel 0141 560 6000 Fax 0141 560 6005

The Glasgow Bike Station has been working with ng homes to deliver the Bike Swap to children in the North Glasgow area, who without the Bike Swap service would have out grown their existing bikes and not had the opportunity to up size their bicycle, meaning their relationship with cycling would have ended. Richard Andrews of Bike Swap said: “By working with ng homes we have successfully facilitated fifteen bike swaps. This will hopefully allow the young people to continue cycling safely into their teenage years and beyond. We have had a great up take of the service and a great response from the community, not only with the bike swap but also at the pop-up Dr Bike service we have delivered alongside the Bike Swap. The Dr Bike service has allowed children to take the opportunity to fix their bikes at events held by ng homes.” Other ng sports legacy activities planned for 2014 include FREE Learn to Swim places for local preschool children, more local rugby & basketball opportunities as well as continued Bike Ready programmes in local Primary Schools. For more information on ngsportslegacy contact Greg Cann on: mycommunity@nghomes.net or 0141 6304254. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ngsportslegacy Twitter: @ngsportslegacy

Website: www.nghomes.net

www.facebook.com/ngsportslegacy ng homes is a trading name of North Glasgow Housing Association

Possilpark (West)

Kenna Rossine House, 252 Saracen Street, Possilpark, Glasgow. G22 5LF Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005

Friday 20th December 2013

A Song, a shimmy and some mistletoe in North Glasgow Over 100 local people from all over North Glasgow gathered for a special Christmas Song, Shimmy and some Mistletoe! The event took place at Petershill Park where everyone was treated to a terrific turkey dinner, music and dancing as well as a special visit from Santa. Residents from all five of ng homes sheltered housing complexes attended and there were also special guests from Four Hills Care Home and Allander Care Home. Transport to and from the event was provided by the ng homes bus. Saracen Primary school dance group Osmania provided some highly energetic entertainment, complete with hip hop and breakdancing. The pupils, accompanied by Head Teacher Evelyn Gibson had also put together hampers which were raffled with the help of MSP for Maryhill and Springburn Patricia Ferguson and ng homes Vice Chairperson Bill Rossine. The pupils were presented with selection boxes for their outstanding energetic and acrobat performance. Music was also provided by entertainers Tommy Twigg and Bradley Paul who had everyone dancing away to some popular songs. The day was complete when Santa dropped by to hand out gifts to everyone there. One resident spoke for many when she said: “This was a great day out, there was a real Christmas feeling, the children were super and everyone really enjoyed themselves, I can’t wait for the next one in the new year.”

Springburn (East)

Email: info@nghomes.net

Ned Donaldson House, 50 Reidhouse Street Springburn, Glasgow. G21 4LS Tel 0141 560 6000 Fax 0141 560 6005

Website: www.nghomes.net

@ng_homes ng homes is a trading name of North Glasgow Housing Association

Possilpark (West)

Kenna Rossine House, 252 Saracen Street, Possilpark, Glasgow. G22 5LF Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005

Friday 20th December 2013

0141 375 0488

Festive cheer at Budhill Family Learning Centre – Maggie Phillips GOOD girls and boys were treated to an evening of Christmas fun as Budhill FLC held their annual Christmas Fayre earlier this month. The event was a huge success with over £1300 being raised. We were supported by local businesses, parents, families and staff, who kindly donated items for prizes. We were extremely grateful for this. We had various stalls such as Tombola, home baking, recycled toys, nail bar, face painting, grab a bag, raffle prizes, DVD’s, books and games and many more. The children thoroughly enjoyed their time and had

a magical experience when getting their photo taken with Santa in his grotto. We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone that helped and came along because if it wasn’t for you it wouldn’t have been such a great success. The money raised will go towards giving our children present, trips and a magical Christmas party. We would also like to thank Scissor Sisters and The Banner Company in the Forge Inshops, another two local businesses that helped us. The attached photos hopefully give a wee bit of flavour as to the evidence of the fun that was had by all. Merry Christmas!

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Email us NOW editor@regennewspapers.co.uk WE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY!

Friday 20th December 2013

City Legacy Homes wish all ReGen Readers a very Happy Christmas and look forward to seeing you at the launch of The Village in the New Year! Buyers are set to snap up a brand new home at the Athletes’ Village in record time when they go on sale in January. After the Commonwealth Games, The Village in Dalmarnock will transform to a unique new, family focussed community in the East End of Glasgow.

fantastic road, rail and bus networks. Home buyers really are spoilt for choice with 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes including a range of apartments, terraced and detached townhouses. These exclusively designed homes are both affordable to buy and to live in.

Energy bills are set to be a lot lower than average, thanks to the energy efﬁcient heating system and super insulated features in every home. Purchasers can also take advantage of the brand new Government-backed Help to Buy (Scotland) scheme which allows buyers to own a home with only a 5% deposit.

Already over 1,400 people have registered for updates on the homes. The Village has a winning combination of facilities. The 300 properties for sale are set amongst green space, River Clyde views and have worldclass sporting facilities on the doorstep. Glasgow city centre is within easy reach through

Green open space by the apartments

The countdown is now on till the launch of The Village. We’re giving anyone who has registered an interest in buying a home at The Village a sneak preview to our new Sales Terrace, which includes 3 new showhomes in mid-January, before they are unveiled to the public at the end of January 2014. So don’t delay! Get off the starting blocks and register for updates on these fantastic new homes at The Village by visiting www.citylegacy.co.uk or by telephoning 0800 0321 100.

Views towards the South West of the Village

IT’S THE GAMES VILLAGE... IT’S YOUR NEW HOME...

The Village

in the New East End Dalmarnock Glasgow

COMING SOON – affordable luxury in a unique setting, a range of 1 to 4 bed energy efﬁcient new homes – FOR SALE

Friday 20th December 2013

Community Groups sharing Festive Cheer and Fun!

Friday 20th December 2013

Community Groups sharing Festive Cheer and Fun!

Friday 20th December 2013

Avoid turkey trauma with smart cooking tips AFTER a long morning of opening presents, everyone enjoys settling down with a feast fit for a king at the Christmas dinner table. But if you feel like you are feeding the 5,000 there is always the temptation to take a shortcut. Don’t make Boxing Day a nightmare. Making a large meal is an art that we leave to the professionals the rest of the year. We often plan poorly and buy far too much meaning a lot is wasted, but another common mistake is the time it takes to cook food properly. The prospect of basting a turkey several times throughout the day whilst trying to relax is not particularly appealing but it is important that we consider the safety of properly cooking our food and avoid getting food poisoning. Preparing the turkey Keep the uncooked turkey away from food that’s ready to eat. If raw poultry, or other raw meat, touches or drips onto these foods, bacteria will spread

and may cause food poisoning. Bacteria can spread from raw meat and poultry to worktops, chopping boards, dishes and utensils. To keep your Christmas food safe, remember the following things: • After touching raw poultry or other raw meat, always wash your hands with warm water and soap, and dry them thoroughly. • There’s no need to wash your turkey before your cook it. If you do, bacteria from raw poultry can splash onto worktops, dishes and other foods. Proper cooking will kill any bacteria. • Always clean worktops, chopping boards, dishes and utensils thoroughly after they have touched raw poultry or meat. • Never use the same chopping board for raw poultry or meat and ready-to-eat food without washing it thoroughly in warm soapy water first. If possible, use a separate chopping board just for raw meat and poultry.

Cooking your turkey Plan your cooking time in advance to make sure you get the bird in the oven early enough to cook it thoroughly. A large turkey can take several hours to cook properly. Eating undercooked turkey (or other poultry) could cause food poisoning. Three ways you can tell a turkey is cooked: • the meat should be steaming hot all the way through

none of the meat should be pink when you cut into the thickest part of the bird • the juices should run clear when you pierce the turkey or press the thigh • If you’re using a temperature probe or food thermometer, ensure that the thickest part of the bird (between the breast and the thigh) reaches at least 70°C for two minutes. Turkey cooking times The cooking times below are

based on an unstuffed bird. It’s better to cook your stuffing in a separate roasting tin, rather than inside the bird, so that it will cook more easily and the cooking guidelines will be more accurate. If you cook your bird with the stuffing inside, you need to allow extra time for the stuffing and for the fact that it cooks more slowly. Some ovens, such as fan-assisted ovens, might

cook the bird more quickly – check the guidance on the packaging and the manufacturer’s handbook for your oven if you can. As a general guide, in an oven preheated to 180ºC (350ºF, Gas Mark 4): • allow 45 minutes per kg plus 20 minutes for a turkey under 4.5kg • allow 40 minutes per kg for a turkey that’s between 4.5kg and 6.5kg

Available Dates Friday 27th December - 10.00am - 3.00pm Monday 30th December - 10.00am - 3.00pm Tuesday 31st December - 10.00am - 3.00pm Friday 3rd January 2014 - 10.00am - 3.00pm

Friday 20th December 2013

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• allow 35 minutes per kg for a turkey of more than 6.5kg Cover your turkey with foil during cooking and uncover for the last 30 minutes to brown the skin. To stop the meat drying out, baste it every hour during cooking. Storing leftovers Keep cooked meat and poultry in the fridge.

If they are left out at room temperature, bacteria that cause food poisoning can grow and multiply. After you’ve feasted on the turkey, cool any leftovers as quickly as possible (within one or two hours), cover them and put them in the fridge. Ideally, try to use up leftovers within 48 hours. When you’re serving cold turkey, take out only as much

as you’re going to use and put the rest back in the fridge. Don’t leave a plate of turkey or cold meats out all day, for example, on a buffet. If you’re reheating leftover turkey or other food, always make sure it’s steaming hot all the way through before you eat it. Don’t reheat more than once. Ideally, use leftovers within 48 hours.

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Shandwick Square, Glasgow G34 9DT. Tel: 0141 773 0114

Your chance to win a £25 voucher for ASDA! If you have overdone the shopping budget this Christmas, then this week’s competition is for you! Our friends at ASDA Parkhead are giving away a £25 voucher that can be used in store to help restock for the new year. To enter all you need to do is enter our competition. Sticking with the festive theme, our question is: Name 3 things that you would take with you if you were going to ‘first foot’ a neighbour on Hogmanay. Send your answer into paula@regennewspapers.co.uk by the 3rd of January 2014 for your chance to win. Good luck!

CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE!

Last week’s lucky winners Well done to last week’s winners who correctly gave us the answer to all of Santa’s reindeer. Not forgetting Rudolph of course! They were: Miss M Boreland, Dennistoun – Moda in Pelle Vouchers Mr P Johnson, Tollcross – The Officers Club Vouchers

Our telephone number has changed to: 0141 375 0488 - Store it now!

CALL US TODAY ON 0141 556 1776 FRIENDLY, PATIENT INSTRUCTORS WITH OVER 23 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Friday 20th December 2013

Look back at 2013, A year to remember ONE of the most special things about the communities of the East and North of Glasgow is the hard work and dedication of our community organisation. These groups are staffed by armies of devoted parents, grandparents, carers and other volunteers, and without them, many community projects would not be able to function. Whether it is a befriending charity, a sports club, a youth programme or a hobby group, they all provide an extra strand to the busy tapestry of our part of the city. In these pages we will look back at what has been another incredible year. 2013 has been busy, not just providing the everyday services that we have come to expect from our local groups, but also as we gear up to the biggest year in decades for the city, 2014. The Commonwealth Games is a massive opportunity for our residents and the hard work of many groups and agencies means that we are already experiencing some of the benefits before a ball has been kicked in anger. But the next stage is even more important. If the games are not to be just a 2 week festival of sport, we need to ensure that the legacy will last for generations to come. If we are to improve the opportunities for our kids in the future, a good place to start would be to look at how we help our community projects blossom. Once we do that, we really can make Glasgow flourish. It has been a busy year for

the Fuse Youth Cafe on Shettleston Road. As well as their regular youth programme of events that includes Boys Night In, Girls Night In, Wacky Wednesdays and many more, Fuse also run adult sessions such as IT and computer literacy classes that help with employability and even Gaelic lessons. Some of their highlights this year include a DJ and Guitar workshop, junior cooking class, football at the Hub, arts and crafts, a dog show, kayaking, a trip to the new Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, a special award for Gerry at the Jobs and Business Glasgow Awards, a trip to the Gallery of Modern Art, go karting and even a Ready Steady Commonwealth cooking competition, with dishes inspired by different nations of the Commonwealth. Another group who made sure that they were ‘Active’ were Active East. They aim to create a legacy from the 2014 Commonwealth Games by encouraging young people to get active and giving them opportunities to volunteer. They have been busy recruiting over 50 volunteers to help spread the Active East message. In February the first batch of volunteers attended an induction at Benmore Outdoor Centre giving the volunteers a chance to evaluate their own skills and build the relationships that they need to help them go out into the community. Over the year they have helped deliver sessions in the YMCA in Tollcross, Connect, PEEK, A&M Training, Cranhill

Beacon and many more. Parkhead Youth Project have also been working hard this year for the youngsters of the East End. They offer a range of services designed to meet the needs of young people in the local area and to encourage them to use their social time more beneficially. Parkhead Youth Project is a successful, open, caring and non-judgemental organisation, willing and able to provide the help that young people require by engaging them in the process of empowerment to enable them to make the best of their talents and abilities and to make positive informed choices in their lives. In addition to their regular Youth Club, their seasonal programmes are famous across the city for the fun, friendship and enjoyment on offer at school holidays. They also received funding this year to deliver the “Nae Excuse” anti sectarianism programme, a welcome fresh attempt to tackle the age old problem. The volunteers and staff of Urban Fox have had a hectic 2013 as they build on another successful year. They delivered services for kids during the Easter and Summer breaks including mountain biking, kayaking, bowling, rugby, athletics, a talent show, baking, golf, dancing, tennis and even a visit to go ape. Needless to say, the kids enjoyed more than the adult volunteers! Alexandra Bike Club cel-

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Friday 20th December 2013

ebrated another successful year as they recruited a record number of new members to the club. They offer free bike rental to residents in the proximity of Alexandra Park. For the first time, they were able to let people borrow an electric bike meaning that those who are building up their fitness and confidence for a bigger bike ride now have the opportunity to take part. Their regular support bike rides are not only a great way to make new friends and stay healthy, but also to see the sites and get around the city. It isn’t just the young ones who are getting in on the

act with Alive and Kicking in Springburn showing just how experience is an important part of it at as well. They had yet another packed programme for the pensioners of the North of the city and even received a Queen’s Award. The Re-Gen was so impressed by the choir that they have, we even asked them to perform at our annual Stars in the Community Awards. Needless to say, they didn’t let us down, and the characters of Alive and Kicking entertained us all. 2013 was a big year for Shettleston Community Grow-

ing Project as they won STV’s - Finding Scotland’s Real Heroes Award. They spent the day with a film crew showing that land that cannot be developed can be brought into use for the community. They transformed land in 2009 that helps city dwellers get the chance to tend their own garden and even grow their own food. This is on land that would otherwise have lain derelict. Our community groups have always done our area proud, and with 2014 the biggest year in a long time for the city, here is to the next 12 months.

Friday 20th December 2013

Carbon Footprints Nursery 10 Duke Wynd, Glasgow G4 0WX 0141 548 6500 www.carbonfootprintsnursery.com

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to Everyone!

Merry Ch and a H New Y

84 and 213 Braidfauld Street Tollcross Glasgow G32 0141 763 1317

Merry Christmas!

Baillieston Credit Union Ltd â&#x20AC;&#x153;people helping peopleâ&#x20AC;? Anyone living or working in the area can join!

53 Ballindalloch Drive, Glasgow G31 3DQ Tel: 0141 551 8131 www.milnbank.org.uk Email:admin@milnbank.org.uk

Merry Christmas

Helen McGregor House 65 Pettigrew Street, G32 7XR

Tel: 0141 763 0511 www.shettleston.co.uk email - sha@shettleston.co.uk

Merry Christmas & all the best for 2014

Merry Christmas!

40 Helenvale Street, Parkhead Glasgow G31 4TF Tel: 0141 556 6226 email@parkheadha.org.uk www.parkheadha.org.uk

Kenna Rossine House, 252 Saracen St, Possilpark, Glasgow. G22 5LF Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005 Ned Donaldson House, 50 Reidhouse St Springburn, Glasgow. G21 4LS Tel 0141 560 6000 Fax 0141 560 6005

Merry Christmas

LOANS - Savings email:Junior Baillieston.c.u@btinternet.com Accounts - Insurance

94 Main Street Baillieston,

Crosshill - Garrowhill - Broomhouse - Mount Glasgow G69 6SL - Barrachnie Vernon - Springhill - Swinton Bargeddie - Barlanark 0141 771 1771

Merry Christmas!

OPEN - Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat - 10am - 1pm Thurs - 6.30pm - 8pm Email: Baillieston.c.u@btconnect.com 94 Main Street Baillieston, Glasgow G69 6SL

90/130 Glenpark Street, Dennistoun, Glasgow G31 1NZ

Tel: 0141 556 7082

Merry Christmas & all the best for 2014

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Friday 20th December 2013

hristmas Happy Year!

T: 0141 630 5000 E: info@glasgowkelvin.ac.uk 123 Flemington Street Springburn, Glasgow G21 4TD www.glasgowkelvin.ac.uk

Baillie Elaine McDougall City Chambers,George Square, Glasgow, G2 1DU Phone: 0141 287 5619 elaine.mcdougall@councillors. glasgow.gov.uk

Season’s Greetings to all our TENANTS! We’re open 24/7 over the festive period. Call us on 0800 749 49 49

James Coleman

4 Crowlin Crescent, Scottish Labour Glasgow, G33 3PH City Chambers,George Square, Tel: 0141 774 0001(Closed Wednesday) Glasgow, G2 1DU Open Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm Email:info@cranhillcu.co.uk Phone: 0141 287 4012

COVERING THE WHOLE OF GLASGOW

Merry Christmas

Tel: 0141 774 0001 Email: info@cranhillcu.co.uk 4 Crowlin Crescent, Glasgow G33 3PH

Eastgate, 727 London Road, Glasgow, G40 3AQ

Tel: 0141 276 7400 gcssenquiries@glasgow.gov.uk

Stay safe at Christmas

GREATER MILTON & POSSILPARK CREDIT UNION LIMITED

REDUCING YOUR ENERGY BILLS

In the absense of banking facilities in Milton, the credit union offers affordable and reliable financial services to the community, regardless of people’s resources or their level of income. Low interest loans are available to members. Any surplus the credit union makes on its activities during the year can be returned to the members in the form of a dividend. Members can save as often as they like and, up to a certain limit, as much as the like. The credit union operates from two additonal collections points:

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1 Westray Circus Milton Glasgow TO HEAT YOUR HOME AND SAVE YOU MONEY G22 7BE 0141 Centre 347 Tuesday 0671 7pm - 8pm Cadder Community

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Merry Christmas

Possilpark Parish Church Saturday 10am -12pm

Working in Milton, Possilpark

753 Westerhouse Road Glasgow G34 9PB Crisis Line: 0141 773 3533 Office Telephone: 0141 781 0230 Email: collective@gewa.org.uk

Merry Christmas!

Friday 20th December 2013

Glasgow Loves Hogmanay - Tuesday 31st December 12noon - 10pm 2014 promises to be a huge year for Glasgow, so make sure you bring it in in style with us on George Square with a day of entertainment with a Commonwealth flavour and welcome the year of the Games. It will be a day full of music from around the Commonwealth from 12noon featuring: Hattrick who will be performing songs in Gaelic, Scots, Swahili with works from all over the world including of course our own Rabbie Burns! Local Vocals Community Choir Ayawara bring West African percussion, song and dance to the Christmas Marquee Samba Ya Bamba and the

Councillor Gilbert Davidson

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year

City Chambers George Square Glasgow G2 1DU Phone: 0141 287 4875 Email: gilbert.davidson@councillors.glasgow.gov.uk

Councillor Frank McAveety

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year

City Chambers George Square Glasgow G2 1DU Phone: 0141 287 5631 Email: frank.mcaveety@councillors.glasgow.gov.uk

Councillor Sohan Singh

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year

City Chambers George Square Glasgow G2 1DU Phone: 0141 287 5468 Email: sohan.singh@councillors.glasgow.gov.uk

Samba Rebelles - these Glasgow favourites never fail to get us dancing with their infectious beat and this time they’re bringing their own dance team. Let’s hope there’s room in the Marquee for everyone! Be on the look out for two huge puppets clad in Caribbean tartan from Bridgeman Arts. There’s only one way to bring our Glasgow Loves Hogmanay celebrations to a fitting close - a ceilidh! The brilliant rock ceilidh band Bahookie will be onstage at 7.30pm to get us all on the dance floor for a Scottish New Year Celebration leaving you time to celebrate the bells at home!

Friday 20th December 2013

Councillor Martin Niall

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year City Chambers George Square Glasgow G2 1DU Phone: 0141 287 5636 Email: martin.neill@councillors.glasgow.gov.uk

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year

From Better Together Councillor Maureen Burke

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year City Chambers George Square Glasgow G2 1DU Phone: 0141 287 5865 Email: maureen.burke@councillors.glasgow.gov.uk

Plan your perfect Hogmanay Party Why not bring in the bells in style at one of these hotels or enjoy good music at a live venue or club night. Check out these venues for your ultimate Hogmanay Party: Crowne Plaza - Hogmanay Gala Ball Your evening will start off in style with a drinks reception followed by an amazing four course gala dinner and a packed live entertainment programme. Crowne Plaza’s resident DJ, Tommy Gray, will compere the evening and resident band ‘In the Groove’ will entertain you and keep you dancing all night, whilst Pipers will help you bring in the bells for 2014 in traditional style. Hilton Glasgow Grosvenor Hogmanay Ceilidh Ball Bid farewell to 2013 and welcome 2014 in style at the Hogmanay Ceilidh Ball at Hilton Glasgow Grosvenor. Enjoy a bubbly and canapé reception at 7:00pm in the Terrace Lounge, with dinner being served in the ballroom at 8:00pm. With a feast of mouth- watering dishes and a variety of entertainment in the lead up to the bells, including top ceilidh band, The Jiggers, a piper and DJ, the Grosvenor is the perfect venue for your Hogmanay celebrations. The party will continue until 2:00am. Grand Central Hotel - Family Hogmanay Party Bring in the bells with family and friends in a relaxed family environment. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet and let the children be entertained by our magician, leaving you time to hit the dance floor! The Arches - GBXperience GBXperience NYE is here once again to take you from 2013 into 2014 with a bang. Last year’s event was without doubt the most amazing start to a year - EVER - and we know this NYE will bring more of the same magical moments. The line up in all rooms is guaranteed to make this a NYE to remember, so make sure you’re part of the crowd! The event will be broadcast live on Clyde 1 FM, but it’s always better to be part of the live crowd!

02 Academy - Club Noir New Year’s Eve The biggest, most glamorous NYE Party in the UK, with lots of Scottish Midnight festivities to see in Hogmanay! Burlesque and Cabaret acts and band, with DJs playing vintage and modern music. Dress up Like only a Club Noir audience knows how! Sparkles, tuxedoes, ball gowns, kilts, tartans, tweeds, Scottish, diamonds, Scottish characters, lingerie, Military Corsets, stockings, velvets, faux furs, Russian, top hats and showgirls. Anything goes. King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut Stop the Clocks Celebrate the new year by seeing Scotland’s best Oasis tribute band in the venue which hosted early performances by the band they pay homage to. The evening will also feature performances from Dirtyface. Arta - Hogmanay Ceilidh Dinner Enjoy Arta’s fabulous three course Hogmanay menu, including a Kir Royale per person and access to all areas and live entertainment. The Ferry - Hogmanay Ceilidh This years Hogmanay Ceilidh celebration provides limited availability for a Gala Buffet Dinner. Merchant Square - Hogmanay Party Set under the twinkling lights of its indoor courtyard, this year’s Merchant Square Hogmanay Party is set to be more extravagant than ever before! Doors open at 7pm with DJ Colin McArdle on the decks throughout the night to get the party started. The main stage in Merchant Square’s courtyard will be the centre hub of entertainment, kicking off with a high energy dance battle from the Spotlight Dancers followed by Stax of Motown a fantastic 11 piece soul band guaranteed to get the party going. It wouldn’t be Hogmanay without a good ceilidh and Merchant Square has Callanish lined up to add a touch of true Scottish tradition to the night’s entertainment.

Friday 20th December 2013

Don’t let the big freeze ruin your Christmas holidays AS you get ready for the winter break, you might think that there are a million things that you need to do....that’s probably because there is! But if you are prepared, and you know what to do in an emergency should the unexpected happen, then there is no reason why the bad weather should put a dampener on your Christmas holidays. Whatever the unpredictable weather, there are a number of things that can hit us unexpectedly. But with these emergency numbers, you will know who to contact. Most housing associations will operate some kind of service during the winter holidays, but there is always the chance that emergency repairs will be required should you get a boiler breakdown, frozen or burst pipes or leaks in the roof.

Emergency repair requests outside normal office hours should be reported to 0141-551-8131 where upon the caller will be offered 2 “touch button”

Option 1 for emergencies - Press 0 Option 2 for non emergencies - Press 1 Where possible the contractor will fix and complete any jobs on site, however some repairs will only be made safe and follow-up work will be carried out as necessary. Residents who use the call out service for a repair that could have been carried out during normal working hours or repairs that are their responsibility will be charged for the full cost of the call out.

GAS ESCAPE SHOULD BE REPORTED TO TRANSCO AT ANY TIME OF DAY OR NIGHT ON FREEPHONE:

0800 111 999 Phone: 0141 551 8131 Fax: 0141 550 2060 Email: repairs@milnbank.org.uk 53 Ballindalloch Drive Glasgow G31 3DQ

Keep these numbers safe, pin them to your fridge or even use these pages as wrapping paper, just make sure you know who to call. To avoid some temperature related disasters there are some things you can do. The misery of a burst pipe can cause damage to your home as well as a costly repair. Keep your heating on a low setting overnight, even if you plan on being away from your home. Check that you know where your water shut off valve is, just in case, so that you can shut of water immediately should a burst pipe occur. If you are going away to visit friends or relatives, make sure that your neighbours or landlord have contact details for you should they need to get in touch with you in an emergency.

Keep your emergency contacts in a visible and safe place. And something that is very important, make sure that you have home contents insurance should the worst come to the worst. This way, you will be able to replace furniture and personal belongings that get damaged should disaster strike. We already have enough to stress us out at this time of year, whether it is getting the perfect present for the special person in your life, or the pressure of entertaining your family and friends with a lovingly cooked meal. It is worth bearing in mind that this is also your holidays and that you need the chance to relax and recharge the batteries. Make sure that you are ready for the weather and have a happy and enjoyable Christmas.

Friday 20th December 2013 Helen McGregor House, 65 Pettigrew Street, Shettleston, Glasgow G32 7XR. Telephone: 0141 763 0511 www.shettleston.co.uk

ATTENTION!

All Parkhead Housing Association Tenants With the temperature below or going below zero to avoid the misery of burst pipes - keep your heating on at least a low setting overnight.

Shettleston Housing Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office will be closed on the following dates:

25th, 26th & 27th December 2013 1st, 2nd & 3rd January 2014 For emergency repairs only while the office is closed, tenants can call Freephone 0808 202 6565

In the current frozen conditions you should leave heating on at least a low setting even if you are away overnight. Check that you know where your water shut off valve is, just in case, so that you can shut water off immediately should a burst pipe occur. If you are going away to visit a friend, let your housing officer know and leave a local contact for access if required in an emergency. Keep the out of hours emergency numbers noted below handy (remember they are for emergencies only) Make sure you have House Contents Insurance (application forms available at PHA office) PHA Christmas Opening Times & Emergency Contact Details Parkhead Housing Association will close Monday 23rd December at 5pm, and will re-open on Friday 3rd January at 9.30am. During this time tenants requiring emergency repairs should use the numbers below:

Gas Heating - 0844 579 6493 Joiner - 0845 877 0411 Electrician - 07860 716 323 Plumber - 07719 904 543 All the staff at PHA wish you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Friday 20th December 2013

Business leaders help GHA mark top international excellence prize LEADERS from Scotland’s business community joined tenants and staff to mark Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) being awarded a prestigious European business prize. The European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) has recognised Scotland’s largest social landlord as an international industry leader with a track record of continuous improvement. GHA, part of Wheatley Group, was presented with the “Leading with Vision, Inspiration and Integrity” prize at the 2013 EFQM Finals in Austria last month. EFQM Chief Executive Marc Amblard joined Sir Peter Housden, Permanent Secretary to the Scottish Government, and Stuart Patrick, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, and other business leaders at The Academy in Wheatley House to celebrate the success. GHA Chair Gordon Sloan said: “This latest prize is another tremendous achievement and I was proud to accept the prize on behalf of the organisation. But it really belongs to Chief Executive Martin Armstrong,

the Executive and Leadership teams and all the staff at GHA who deliver services to our customers every day with passion and commitment.” Chief Executive Martin Armstrong said: “This award recognises that GHA has leaders in every part and at every level of the organisation who are making a massive contribution to making the homes and lives of our customers better. ”GHA is leading the way in transforming communities and enhancing the lives of our tenants.” The EFQM Finals in Vienna featured global companies, including BMW, and representatives of countries from Russia to Spain and England to Turkey and Belgium. Over 30,000 organisations across Europe use the EFQM framework. Earlier this year, GHA won an EFQM Good Practice award, beating off competition from international organisations such as electronics giant Bosch, for its “Think Yes” behavioural-change programme for staff. EFQM Chief Executive Marc Amblard said: “This award measures success and

it shows GHA has achieved a milestone towards excellence.” Sir Peter Housden, Permanent Secretary to the Scottish Government, said: “GHA is an organisation that is of iconic significance in Scotland and its extraordinary levels of customer and staff satisfaction are a substantial achievement.” Stuart Patrick, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, added: “This prize is a concrete demonstration that GHA is a powerful force for good in this city.” A team of assessors spent a week at GHA in June interviewing staff and looking at how the organisation is focused on helping its 45,000 tenants. Two years ago GHA won Scotland’s business of the year title and was the only organisation from the public, private and voluntary sector to gain the maximum five-star Recognised for Excellence rating by Quality Scotland. GHA has also gained Customer Service Excellence accreditation – an award scheme run by the UK Government’s Cabinet Office – five years in a row.

£2m funding cheer for community projects COMMUNITY groups across the North and East of Glasgow were celebrating their share of £2 million in National Lottery funding thanks to the Big Lottery Fund, the largest of the National Lottery Good cause distributors. Supporting vulnerable people through difficult times today’s grants will make a big difference to people with additional learning needs, carers, and those with trying to get into work in Glasgow. Announcing the package of funding Maureen McGinn, Big Lottery Fund Scotland Chair, said: “Our aim is to support people and communities in greatest need; and now, in Glasgow and Lanarkshire, five projects can do just that. From supporting carers to cope better with their caring roles through to the provision of befriending services for people with learning disabilities, these projects are all excellent examples of how our funding is helping change the lives of thousands of people. “Across Scotland eight groups today share £3.6 million. These groups each have their community’s needs at heart and now, with our support, they can make their projects happen. At the Big Lottery Fund, we’re able to help organisations of all sizes turn ideas into reality through our Investing In Communities funding scheme. So if you think you have a project that could make a difference, then come and talk to us.” In Glasgow’s east end Thenue Housing Association (THA) will use their grant of£445,570 to extend and de-

velop their Learning Works programme which supports local adults who are long term unemployed to move close to work, education or training. Welcoming today’s announcement, Lawrence McCabe THA Community Regeneration Manager said: “We are delighted at the generous funding award from Big Lottery Fund for our Learning Works project. It is a great boost to our hard-working team who have helped to make it such a success and will give us a renewed sense of purpose to carry on the good work. More than anything it is good news for the people that we will be able to help in the future by enabling us to provide additional opportunities for the long-term unemployed to make positive changes to their lives.” The 10-week Learning Works course will help people like mum of two Stephanie McGhee. Stephanie, now 24, left school at 16 and for the last eight years she has held down a number of short-term jobs. Her experience of Learning Works has helped her turn her dream of getting a career into reality. Stephanie said: “I was made redundant from my last job earlier this year and it’s been very difficult since then. I didn’t want to just go back to another job in a shop. I’ve always been in and out of work since I left school but while I dreamed of being able to have a career I couldn’t get to that point. My self-confidence was low and as a mum of two young children childcare is an issue. “When I heard about the Learning Works course I really wanted to give it a go but to begin with even that was

a struggle as I needed someone to look after my youngest daughter. Eventually with THA’s help I managed to get a child-minder. “The course opened my eyes and gave me essential skills. It made me realise I can do anything and after I’d finished I started applying for college. I’m now on an access to nursing course and applying for University course for next year. “I know this is a job I’ll love. I want to prove to myself and my daughters that everyone can have a career but I couldn’t have even got this far without the support and help of the Learning Works team.” An today’s award of £193,938 Maryhill Burgh Halls can now ensure the whole community benefits from the wonderful community facility that has been redeveloped in the heart of north Glasgow. Welcoming the funding Irene Scott Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust Chair said, “Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust is truly delighted to have been awarded a generous grant from the Big Lottery Fund. This valuable grant will allow us to build on the work we have done over the past two years since the buildings were restored and re-opened. “Over 500 events have taken place in the buildings so far, including weddings, children’s parties, music, arts, dance and community consultation events. This funding will greatly benefit the people and local organisations in Maryhill by allowing the Trust to continue to provide facilities for the local community and further develop community projects by enlisting the help of more volunteers to become involved in our activities.”

Youth crime in Glasgow falls for 6th year in a row Students get crafty at Christmas GLASGOW Kelvin College’s 2nd year HND Fashion students got creative this week to raise cash for Yorkhill Children’s Hospital. The fashion students organised a Craft Fare at the College’s Springburn Campus and invited a variety of stallholders to participate. They sold colourful and ex-

quisite handcrafted gifts including jewellery, homemade chocolates, Harris Tweed bags and scarves and beautiful handmade taffeta garlands to name but a few. Students, staff and the local community came in their droves to bag a crafty bargain and they were able to raise the impressive sum of £1500 for

the Yorkhill Children’s Hospital charity. The students will add this to the other funds they have raised this year and it will bring their total so far to almost £2000, which is a massive achievement for this talented group. Congratulations go to the group, pictured here at their own Craft Fair stall.

The Council’s annual Youth Justice Services report found that in 2012-13 that the number of offenders being referred to the Children’s Panel fell by 22% compared to the previous year. Likewise the overall number of referrals to the Children’s Panel for crimes committed by young people in Glasgow also dropped by 21%, down from 2132 referrals in 2011-12 to 1674 referrals in 2012-13. The latest figures fit with the long-term trend for youth crime in the city, which show that the number of offenders referred to the Children’s Panel has come down by 78% since 2006-7 with offence-based referrals having reduced by 74%. The dramatic turnaround in youth offending has followed the creation of Glasgow’s Youth Justice Strategy Group, which incorporates a wide range of partners including Social Work, Police Scotland, Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration, Education, Community Safety Glasgow and Health. With wellover 90% of Glasgow’s young people having no involvement

in any kind of criminal activity, the basic strategy has been to divert low-level offenders away from trouble at the earliest opportunity while focusing intensive efforts on the more prolific offenders and their families. Councillor Malcolm Cunning, the council’s Executive Member for Social Care, said the report was a tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in delivering upon the youth justice strategy. The Executive Member praised the group for developing a robust system based on programmes with a proven track record of success. Councillor Cunning said: “The latest youth justice figures highlight a remarkable achievement for Glasgow. I suspect a great many people had previously felt quite hopeless about the prospect of turning around the issue of youth crime. “But this report highlights the benefits of working to a clear strategy that’s built upon the evidence for what works and pulls together all of the agencies with a responsibility to young people.

We know that the overwhelming majority of young people are law abiding citizens or can be quickly diverted down a better path if they show signs of getting into trouble. “That allows us to target our efforts at the young people and their families with the most challenging issues and this approach has helped us to win substantial gains. We can never say we have solved youth crime, but I know we have a highly committed team in place that continues to innovate and deliver positive results. “It all helps to make the city a safer place and that has to be good news for Glasgow.” During 2012-13 a total of 628 young people in Glasgow were referred to the Scottish Children’s Reporter’s Administration on the basis of their offending. A total of 7725 offences were committed by under 18s in Glasgow in the last year, which represents a 12% fall on the previous, and a 45% reduction over the past five years.

Friday 20th December 2013

Environmental

Sheriff hands out tough sentence to East End fly tipper Scotland ’s environment watc hdog is hoping that a sentenc e of 135 hour s of unpaid work in the communit y, hande d out at Glasgow Sherif f Cour t las t month, for was te of fenc es will send out a s trong mes sage that ignoring legislation is not an option. The warning comes after John Baird, Director of Oak tay Limited, pled guilt y on 24 October 2013 to depositing controlled waste at Hamilton Road, Glasgow. The case followed an in vestigation by the Scot tish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA ) and subse quent repor t to the Procu rator Fiscal. SEPA received a com plaint, passed on by Glas gow Cit y Council on 4 Oc tober 2010, of illegal waste disposal on land to the rear of tenement flats at Hamil ton Road, Glasgow. It was alleged that a Mr Baird of Oak tay Limited, who was constructing flats on an adjacent site, had de posited the waste. W hen of ficers visited the land they confirmed

that controlled waste was present, specifically soils, timber, plastics, aggre gate, gloves, glass, brick, fencing, kerbs and a con crete manhole. Following statements from witnesses who had obser ved the illegal waste deposits, a final warning let ter was issued to Mr Baird giving him 21 days to remove the waste from the land. In Februar y 2011 SEPA of ficers again visited and found that no work had been carried out to re move any of the waste, in fact the area had star ted to grass over. Ed Turner, SEPA’s inves tigating of ficer, said: “Mr Baird is fully aware he has contravened envi ronmental legislation in depositing waste on this land.

H e has b een the recipi ent of a final warning letter, as well as having verb al discussions with S EPA of ficers in p erson and over the phone. H e has b een made aware of his o blig ations and was given ample time to re move the waste. H owever, he had show n no inclina tion to work with us.’ “ We have exhausted all at tempts at volunt aril y achieving c ompliance and referring the c ase for prosecution is c onsidered to b e the onl y remaining o ption. T his prosecution should send out a strong mes s age to M r B aird , and oth ers in the waste industr y w ho cho ose to ignore en vironment al legislation, that this will not b e tolerated.”

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raising environmental issues

Local children get funds to improve local green space GREEN community projects in Glasgow have received an early Christmas present this year as they have been awarded over £4,000 funding from the Central Scotland Green Network’s (CSGN) Community Projects Fund to improve their local greenspace. Supported by Forestry Commission Scotland, the CSGN Community Projects Fund provides one-off grants of up to £3,000 to support small-scale projects at a grass-roots level to enhance the quality of their environment. The Fund aims to increase use of and foster community pride in local greenspaces and is directed at ventures which benefit children and young people under 16 years old, or which involve this age group in the project. In total, £4,600 has been awarded across two projects in Glasgow: • St. Albert’s Primary School has been awarded £3,000 to undertake further development of its growing space to support learning, create produce for cooking and promote healthy eating. The grant will be used to purchase materials

for three raised beds, a compost bay, an herb spiral wheel, a polytunnel, a water butt and tools. • Germiston Allotments has been awarded £1,600 to buy equipment and seeds to improve this newly created allotment site. The activities will involve children from the local primary school which also has a plot, and the children and grandchildren of other plot holders. Keith Geddes, Chair of the Central Scotland Green Network Partnership Board, said: “Now in its third year, our Community Projects Fund continues to go from strength to strength and we’re pleased to be able to continue our support for grass-roots projects across the region. “There’s a fantastic range of successful projects this year, from nurseries looking to promote outdoor learning and natural play, to allotment groups trying to encourage children to take part in community growing activities to inspire healthy eating. “These small-scale local initiatives are instrumental in achieving our goal of creating a high-quality green network

across central Scotland to improve the quality of life for local communities.” Some 26 environmental community projects throughout the CSGN area received a share of this year’s £60,244 Community Projects Fund. As one of the Scottish Government’s ‘National Developments’ in its second National Planning Framework, the CSGN will change the face of Central Scotland, by restoring, transforming and greening the landscape of an area stretching from Ayrshire and Inverclyde in the west, to Fife and the Lothians in the east. The CSGN encompasses 19 local authorities across 10,000 sq km and has the potential to benefit 3.5million people, equating to 70 per cent of Scotland’s population. The network’s overarching vision is that by 2050, Central Scotland will be transformed into a place where the environment adds value to the economy and where people’s lives are enriched by its quality. For further information about the CSGN Community Projects Fund, please visit www.centralscotlandgreennetwork.org

Friday 20th December 2013

Parliamentary Patter

North Glasgow Bob Doris MSP AS we approach the Christmas period, many constituents will be feeling the financial pinch.A combination of low pay and welfare cuts will be having a particular squeeze on families this year. The Scottish Government has been running an online campaign, “12 Days of Debtmas”, to provide information on affordable credit using credit unions, rather than the shortterm, high-interest “payday loan” lenders. Over 8,000 people have used the site, with 1300 people asking to get more information on credit unions.I would urge anyone with debt issues to visit the site at www.12daysofdebtmas.com. Unfortunately, the Scottish Government has no powers to take direct action against high-interest lenders, but has

pledged to do so if it gains the powers of independence. The ongoing welfare cuts are another cause of hardship. This month, the Scottish Secretary, Alistair Carmichael, gave evidence to MSPs at the Scottish Parliament.In reply to one of my questions, he admitted that UK welfare reforms may be increasing the use of food banks, as people struggle to buy the bare essentials. In the last six months, 23,000 people in Scotland have used food banks, including 7,000 children: an increase on last year of 19,000, or almost 500%. This hardship has not only been caused partly by the Bedroom Tax, but also by Jobcentre Plus’s practice of “sanctioning”: withholding benefits for a short period of time.53,000 claimants were sanctioned in the last year alone.

Patricia Ferguson MSP AS Christmas approaches the temptation to borrow money from a pay day loan company can become overwhelming. As many as one in three people in Scotland cannot afford to save and many depend upon loans to see them through. During 2012 8 million loans were made by these companies and the fact that it can be so easy to arrange means it is harder to resist when money is tight. My colleague, Stella Creasy MP has been campaigning at Westminster for some time now to cap the cost of these loans and to limit the amount of interest that can be charged. The UK Government has now

said that it will act but their action is overdue. Other countries like Germany have already acted and the maximum amount of interest that can be charged there is 40 per cent. That still sounded like a very high rate of interest to me until I discovered that Wonga charges 5,284 per cent - a truly mind blowing figure. In my view, capping the interest rates is not enough; we need to act to prevent the payday loan companies from being able to advertise as much as they currently do. In 2009 there were 17,000 pay day loan adverts on TV but by 2012 the figure had reached

Willie Bain MP

AND so 2013 draws to a close. What will it be remembered for – the year of China’s continued rise? A year of progress in our relations with Iran? The year of British sporting success highlighted by Andy Murray’s triumph at Wimbledon? The year of Miley and her Wrecking Ball? 2013 will have brought with it a wealth of precious memories for many people. Completing exams, promotion at work, a child’s first steps, passing a driving test, being able to propose to a partner and finally get married next year because of new or forthcoming equal marriage laws. But for others, sadly 2013 will be remembered as the

year of the food bank and the bedroom tax. Introduced in April, the bedroom tax is the signature policy of the Coalition – cruel and incompetent, the tax that costs more to collect than it is supposed to save the taxpayer. It costs our society far more however in the toll it extracts from the most vulnerable. One of my most moving experiences as an MP this year was to hold the hand of a constituent with cerebral palsy in Balornock with tears in her eyes in disbelief about how a Government could be coming after people like her for £11 a week. 2,200 people in my constituency and over 650,000 across the country are targeted in a similar way by Ministers who cannot tell us whether the policy is about tackling overcrowd-

This penalty is often put in place completely unreasonably: Citizens Advice told me about one such person who lost cash because they were attending a work placement.I asked Mr Carmichael to review the use of sanctions, but he refused, saying it wasn’t his responsibility. That admission that the UK’s Scottish Secretary cannot or will not protect vulnerable Scottish families demonstrates clearly that only by controlling welfare ourselves can we develop a fair welfare system that both makes work pay and protects the vulnerable. That fairer society will be a key battleground in the new year as we head towards the referendum, in which a Yes vote is the best chance of making Scotland wealthier and fairer. I wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a great 2014.

400,000 adverts on our TVs and radios. Citizen’s Advice Bureaus should be congratulated on the work they have done to address this issue and for the advice they offer to people who might be in debt. Local credit unions are also a good source of low cost finance and many of our housing providers can also offer advice and help when money is tight. It would seem that the payday loan companies are the only people benefitting from the economic crisis. On a happier note, can I take this opportunity to wish all readers of the Re-Gen a very happy Christmas and a peaceful 2014.

ing or is supposed to produce savings for the Exchequer. The injustice of the bedroom tax is why is it has to go, and a Labour Government elected in 2015 will scrap it. Similarly, as use of food banks trebled after the bedroom tax started to bite in April, so falling real wages have been the other story of the year for millions of working families. My constituents saw their average wages fall in cash terms by 2.3% in 2013, while prices rose by 2.4% on average, with food prices even higher than that. How to fix the link between growth and living standards for the many is the most important question facing society across the UK next year, other than deciding whether Scotland should continue as part of that society. I hope and believe we will.

Friday 20th December 2013

Parliamentary Patter

Glasgow East Paul Martin MSP THE news last week that class sizes have got bigger and teacher numbers are falling will come as no surprise to the parents and pupils living in my constituency. When the SNP were elected in 2007 they promised that Primary school kids would be in classes of 18 or fewer. Almost 7 years later, we in fact have gone backwards with bigger class sizes and almost 4,000 fewer teachers. When the pledge was made, Scottish Labour knew that it would be impossible to deliver this pledge without putting the funding in place. This is not the first time with the SNP, just think about

their promises to abolish student debt, abolish the council tax and give grants to first time buyers. There is a very important point here about trust. If Alex Salmond’s promises on any of these points are like his promises with independence, why should anyone believe a word he has to say? Last week, the UK Government gave the Scottish Government and extra £300m to spend in its annual budget. Scottish Labour have said that we should be using the powers we already have in the Scottish Parliament to increase the provision of Childcare, it doesn’t need to wait

until independence like the SNP would have you believe. This is a positive action that Scottish Labour is proposing now. The reality is that the Edinburgh Government are using childcare, not to improve children’s lives, but as an opportunity to bribe voters in the independence referendum. This will be the biggest decision that we make as a country for over 300 years and we need to have some real honesty in this debate. If you would like to speak to me about this or any other issue then get in touch with me on 0141 564 1364 or paul. martin.msp@scottish.parliament.uk.

Margaret Curran MP AS I look back on 2013 it’s hard not to dwell on the tragedy visited upon the City by the Clutha vaults disaster. That 10 men and women died in such devastating circumstances will live long in the memory, and my thoughts and prayers continue to be with their family and friends at this difficult time. Even as we mourn the dead, it is important that we remember the hard work of the emergency services and the selfless actions of those passersby who stopped to help the rescue efforts, undoubtedly helping to limit the casualties. This year also saw the sad passing of a number of my colleagues and ex-colleagues.

Ruth Davidson MSP I WAS delighted to read recently of the funding boost for Entrepreneurial Spark, which helps new businesses get off the ground in Glasgow and beyond. ESpark’s ‘hatcheries’ in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Ayrshire provide mentoring, advice and facilities to businesses in the first six months of their existence. In its first 18 months it has delivered facilities, advice and support to more than 250 startups. This represents more than 200 new jobs, and millions of pounds of investment, which is

a huge boost to the local economies affected. £300,000 of new funding will allow ESpark to include a new set of ‘nests’, which will deliver a similar level of support to more established companies. The funding from Royal Bank of Scotland and Glasgow City Council will enable ESpark to support entrepreneurs who have been trading for between six months and five years, regardless of whether they have been through the ESpark Hatchery or not. The project already has the backing of some of Scotland’s leading business figures, giving

real credibility and confidence to those who are accepted onto the programme. I have seen first-hand just what a great job ESpark does, and this investment comes as a real vote of confidence in its work. ESpark hopes to encourage an entrepreneurial revolution in Scotland and, as such, it is vital that we continue to support the work it does. As ever, if you wish to contact me about any issue please do not hesitate to email me on ruth.davidson.msp@scottish. parliament.uk or call my constituency office on 0141 357 2739.

Ex East End MP Jimmy Wray and East End Councillors George Ryan and Tom McKeown all made a huge contribution to the Labour Party, and to Glasgow, and both are poorer places for their passing. I was also saddened by the death of my friend Helen Eadie MSP, a tireless campaigner who was well-respected in her native Fife. Across the political aisle, SNP Councillor Allison Hunter and Former Scottish Conservative leader David McLetchie MSP also passed away. In the tribal world of politics we rarely consider the human side of our opponents, but I know that both David and Allison dedicated much of their

lives to public service and to causes they believed in. And who can forget the death of Nelson Mandela. t is hard to think of any living person who could unite the world in grief and adulation like Mandela has. Just as it’s hard to imagine that many will come close to achieving what the great man achieved. Amidst it all, however, we mustn’t forget the positives. After Clutha our great city came together as one, showing beyond all doubt that there is more that unites us than divides us. And on this note, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Friday 20th December 2013

Welfare Reform

“GLARING FLAWS” IN HATED BEDROOM TAX Westminster Committee calls for immediate halt to implementation of Housing Benefit cuts AN interim report published this week by the Commons Scottish Affairs Committee calls on the Coalition Government to the repeal the Bedroom Tax. While this is being considered, the Committee calls on the Government to suspend application of the Bedroom Tax for all those tenants to whom a reasonable alternative offer cannot be made. This takes account of the evidence received which shows clearly that there are not enough smaller houses available for tenants hit by the Bedroom Tax to transfer into. The vast majority of tenants affected by the Bedroom Tax will have been allocated their existing housing before the new tax was invented – and the lack of any alternative offers means that they have no choice but to go into arrears if they simply cannot afford the extra costs. Other amendments proposed for the operation of the tax include: • Exemptions for those disabled people who require a room to store or use equip-

ment or aids or who require to sleep apart from their partner • Non application where it would be financially perverse to do so – eg where the only alternative of a smaller private let would be more expensive or where removing fixed aids and adaptations, and then reinstalling them in a smaller home, would be more expensive than the savings over two years • All children of secondary school age should be allowed a bedroom of their own to allow quiet study • All disabled children, of whatever age, should have a bedroom of their own The Committee also believes there should be changes to the system of Discretionary Housing Payments, which have been designed by the Government to mitigate the worst impacts of the Bedroom Tax. In particular: • There should be a standard nationwide entitlement system, across the UK as a whole, rather than the present postcode lottery. Councils would then be free to take account of

local circumstances above the basic national safety net • Both the UK and Scottish Governments should make longer term commitments to the provision of DHP payments in order to allow local authorities to plan and structure their budgets and minimize the prevalence of short term DHP payments Ian Davidson Chair of the Committee said: “This is an interim report because, while the impact of the Bedroom Tax cannot yet be fully quantified, it is already clear that it is a cruel burden being placed upon the shoulders of those least able to bear it. “This tax is little more than a cut in public expenditure, designed to hit the poorest. “We have produced an interim report because some glaring flaws are already apparent and notwithstanding our call for the tax to be abolished, we wish to draw these faults to the Government’s attention while it is conducting a review. “We intend to explore more fully not only design flaws but also what can and should

be done by the Scottish Government, social landlords and others to mitigate its effects on the vulnerable in Scotland.” Local visits to affected communities are planned, to Airdrie and then Castlemilk where various formal and informal meetings will take place with the people dealing with the impact of the Bedroom Tax. Labour’s Shadow Scottish Secretary, Margaret Curran MP, has today reissued her call

to Alistair Carmichael for the UK Government to abandon the bedroom tax, following a report from the Scottish Affairs Committee. At the Scottish Affairs Committee last month, Alistair Carmichael suggested that if the bedroom tax was shown to cost more than it saves, the Government would scrap it. In her letter Margaret Curran MP wrote: “The Scottish Affairs Com-

mittee did not receive a single piece of evidence during its inquiry that was in favour of the bedroom tax. Instead of waiting until 2015 for your review, you should listen to the many organisations that have shown that the bedroom tax is costing more than it saves, and to the tenants the length and breadth of Scotland who are suffering because of this charge, and scrap the bedroom tax now.”

Benefit changes to cost Glasgow £114m WHILST preparing the interim report on the Scottish Affairs Select Committee, evidence was given by Glasgow’s then spokesperson on Welfare Reform, Cllr Matt Kerr. He told the committee that the economy of the city will badly suffer because of the UK Government’s agenda. In his evidence, Cllr Kerr said: “The overall welfare reform picture in Glasgow is that about

£114 million a year will be lost to the city economy, so there is obviously a massive impact in Glasgow. In Glasgow we spend about £300 million a year on housing benefit. That is obviously a substantial sum. An impact on that will obviously make a very big difference to how we do our business. “The biggest thing I am see-

ing day to day in terms of what I am doing in social care relates to homelessness, which comes under my remit. There is a problem there. The problem is not necessarily a spike in homelessness, but being able to move people on and through the system. “The housing stock in Glasgow was transferred from the local authority some 10 years ago. We have built up relationships with the 67 different

housing associations in the city. Some are better placed than others to deal with homelessness and some are better placed than others in terms of the effects of bedroom tax. Some have been hit with having something like 75% of their tenants affected by the bedroom tax. For the smaller housing associations that is particularly bad. “The knock-on effect on homelessness is that as we

move people through the temporary furnished accommodation, which we get through our partners in the social housing sector, we cannot move them on to permanent accommodation, because the smaller houses are not there. Most people who are homeless are single-that is still the case. “Naturally, if we want to move them on, we cannot move them into a place where

they will be in detriment almost instantly and where the likelihood of that tenancy breaking down is very high. That then leaves us with a logjam in terms of temporary furnished accommodation. It means that we have a massive shortage of temporary accommodation and are becoming more reliant on using bed and breakfast-something that we have been trying to stop doing for decades.”

Friday 20th December 2013

Police Scotland

Local Police News Major Incident Clutha Vaults – Tenth Fatality

POLICE Scotland can confirm that a tenth person has died following the incident at the Clutha Vaults bar in Glasgow on November 29 2013. Joe Cusker (59) of Cambuslang died on Thursday 12 December 2013 within Glasgow Royal Infirmary, where he has been receiving treatment since the incident. Deputy Chief Constable Rose Fitzpatrick said: “It is with great sadness that I can confirm the number of people who died when the helicopter came down on the Clutha Vaults pub has increased to ten. Our thoughts are with families at this difficult time and we will continue to provide support to them as we have done for all of the bereaved.” The nine other victims of the incident are: Gary Arthur, 48 Constable Tony Collins, 43 Constable Kirsty Nelis, 36 Captain Dave Traill, 51 Samuel McGhee, 56 Robert Jenkins, 61 Mark O’Prey, 44 Colin Gibson, 33 John McGarrigle, 57

The Clutha Appeal

FOUR of our very own Police Scotland colleagues who all live and work in and around Glasgow have teamed up and put their talents to good use in the wake of the loss of several lives following the helicopter crash at The Clutha Vaults bar in Glasgow. PC’s Paul Keenan, Jamie Easton, Craig Brooks and Stephen Marlin have recorded a song along with the help of Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall in aid of The Clutha Appeal Fund which was set up by Glasgow City Council. Paul, who formed the band and has previously enjoyed chart success with Uniting Nations, has called on celebrities, Glaswegians and indeed the country to join the cause. The song, Wont Forget, which was written by Paul and features Jai’s vocals, was recorded at the SAE Institute music school in Kinning Park and was released on iTunes on Tuesday 17th December 2013. The track is 99p, the pro-

PC’s Jamie Easton (left) and Paul Keenan (right)

Offensive Male Arrested

DURING the evening of Thursday 12th December 2013 staff within News Buster, London Road were shocked when a drunk male entered the premises and began shouting and swearing at them using racial and homophobic language. Police were contacted and located the male whilst conducting a search of the area. The male was arrested following his earlier conduct at which time he became abusive towards the officers in attendance. The male continually shouted and swore at the officers, making reference to the recent helicopter disaster at The Clutha Vaults on 29th November 2013. He also threatened to shoot the officers and made sexual references towards them. The 47 year old male was arrested and appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court after which he was remanded in custody to spend Christmas behind bars! The charity single ‘Wont Forget’ by The Clutha Appeal ceeds of which all go the Clutha Appeal Fund. The Clutha Appeal Fund was established to support anyone facing hardship as a result of the tragic helicopter crash including casualties and the families of those who lost their lives. Anyone in need of support can call the dedicated helpline on 0141 287 0999 and anyone who wishes to donate to the fund by credit or debit card can do so by calling 0141 287 7878. Donations can also be made by cash or cheque at the council’s Service Desk at 45 John Street, Glasgow, G1 1JE and bank payments can be made to Clutha Appeal Fund, sort code 83-44-00, account number 10804129.

Christmas Personal Safety

OVER the festive period towns and cities across Scotland become busier with shoppers during the day and in the evening with people on Christmas party nights out. The Police Scotland campaign aims to give the public some simple advice and tips on personal safety to help keep people safe and enjoy Christmas. Tips and advice for having a safe Christmas

Party Safe • Plan ahead for your night out. Know how you are getting home and remember to keep enough cash for your return journey. • Stay together – look out for friends. Do not leave parties with strangers. • Watch your drinks and how much you drink. Stay in control of your drinking, remember you are more vulnerable when drinking - never accept a drink from someone you do not entirely trust. Don’t leave your drink unattended, even if just going to the toilet. If out with friends, appoint a ‘drinks watcher’ (perhaps someone who is not drinking alcohol) who can ensure that the drinks of everyone in your party are looked after. • Keep bags and valuables with you at all times. Do not leave bags unattended - when in restaurants and bars, always keep them where they can be seen. • Make sure your phone is charged, you have money to get home and look after your keys. • Use a licensed taxi, public transport or arrange a lift. Try and pre-book your taxi, do not accept lifts from cruising cabs or touts and try to travel home with a friend.

• If you are walking home, be aware and avoid isolated areas. Don’t take short cuts through dark alleys, parks or across waste ground and keep to well lit, busy areas. Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed. Shop Safe • Look after your bags and valuables. Do not leave bags unattended - when in restaurants and bars, always keep them where they can be clearly seen. • Do not withdraw more money than you need. Put your money in your wallet/ bag before leaving ATM, don’t walk about with lots of cash in your hands. • Hide your PIN number. • Don’t leave gifts in cars or in plain sight at home • Close and lock all doors and windows and leave some lights on when you go out. The campaign will will be seen across Scotland in train stations, posters in the community, at Christmas light switch ons and on an adtrailer touring Scotland. From the campaign launch and throughout December there will be lots of activity on facebook.com/PoliceScotland and on twitter @ PoliceScotland

Motorcyclist Knocked Down

A 45 year old male has been reported to the Procurators Fiscal after a road traffic collision at 1830hrs on Friday 13th December 2013 on Brook Street, Glasgow. The male performed a U turn in the road, failing to observe a motorcyclist travelling behind him, knocking the motorcyclist off. Miraculously neither driver involved was injured. Friday the 13th cant be too bad after all!

The Little Book of Big Scams

SCAMS (or frauds) are often difficult to investigate as they can be complicated and often involve many people (both victims and suspects). They can take a lot of re-

sources to investigate and courts can find it difficult to convict suspects because of the grey area that exists between dishonesty and sharp practice. Prevention through awareness is therefore a vital strand in combating scammers. The Metropolitan Police Service has created The Little Book of Big Scams. It should be seen as a general guide to many of the scams currently operating in the UK and can be found on their website at www.content.met.police.uk/Home.

Barlinnie Assault

A 33 year old male has been reported to the procurators fiscal following a serious assault which occurred within the exercise yard of Barlinnie Prison in November 2013. The assault occurred when a 32 year old male came off much worse following a fight between him and the accused. The 32 year old received several kicks to the head and sustained a serious injury to his ear requiring stitches.

B&M Shoplifting

A 42 year old female shoplifter has been on the receiving end of some Christmas spirit after being caught stealing at B&M in Springburn. She was caught after taking high value children’s toys from the store on Tuesday 10th December 2013. The female was the recipient of a formal warning.

Friday 20th December 2013

Scotland Decides

Who is correct about Euro vision? REGULAR readers of this column will have seen that both sides advocate their argument for either remaining in the UK or having an independent country with the passion and conviction that we all expect from our politicians. But what many undecided voters want is the facts surrounding the biggest decision we will have to make as a country for 300 years. This week we are looking at the competing arguments surrounding the EU and membership

of the biggest common market in the world. Membership of the EU is extremely important for the economic health of the country but it is not without its critics. Whilst some would happily agree that being part of the European Union has made it easier to trade with other countries there are policies, such as the free movement of labour, that have meant that the UK cannot restrict the number of migrants from within Europe who can come and work in the country. Another debating point

that is particularly important for the case of Scotland is what happens should Scotland decide to vote for independence and have to negotiate its membership. What would the terms and conditions of this membership be? Could Scotland continue to get the rebate? Would we need to adopt the Euro like other new applicant countries? Below are the arguments from both sides of the campaign who will put their case forward to you. And remember, it is you who decides.

Scottish Referendum: 18th September 2014 “It is time the nationalists were

“The EU will warmly welcome honest about EU membership” Scotland” - Yes Scotland - Better Together THE fundamental instinct of the European Union will be to warmly welcome an independent Scotland as continuing member, a leading research institute said today. Scottish Global Forum said the depiction of the EU as an organisation whose default position would be to look coldly on Scotland was a myth. The think tank says that after a Yes vote “Scotland’s seamless transition to full EU membership” can be easily facilitated “giving Scotland the same rights and opt-outs from EU treaties that it currently enjoys as part of the UK”. There is no mechanism in

the EU for expelling states which become independent In a major analysis of the debate so far over an independent Scotland’s EU status, the organisation’s director Dr John MacDonald dismisses recent claims by Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy that Scotland would be out of the EU if there is a Yes vote next September. And he says it will be in the clear best interests of the rest of the UK to agree to share “joint success status” with an independent Scotland after a Yes vote. Dr MacDonald stresses that “there is no mechanism in the EU treaties for expelling states

which become independent from a current EU member state, something which has been confirmed by an array of authoritative commentators, including one of Germany’s most prominent EU scholars, Professor Roland Vaubel.” He adds: “Even if such a mechanism did exist, it would be premature to accept that a vote for Scottish independence would bring about expulsion. Talk of Scotland’s expulsion supposes that in the aftermath of a “Yes” vote, the remainder of the UK (henceforth rUK) would assume “sole successor state” status, a situation which would – so the thinking goes – remove the newly independent Scotland from the various niches that the UK currently occupies within the international architecture, including the EU. “However, we should certainly make no assumption that a “sole” successor state would emerge from post-referendum negotiations between Scotland and rUK. Among the various unknowns which may arise from those negotiations, a mutually beneficial one would be agreement that both states should share successor status.” He cites Professor David Scheffer as just one of many prominent legal scholars who see agreement on “joint successor status” as being the most logical and responsible agreement route for Edinburgh and London to work towards in the aftermath of a Yes vote.

THE President of the European Council has dealt the latest devastating blow to the credibility of Alex Salmond’s assertions on EU membership. This is the latest such intervention from the leaders of Europe following the nationalists’ manifesto for separation which promised Scotland would remain in the EU automatically. Both the nationalists assertions and the White Paper’s claims have been disputed by the same leaders who would determine Scotland’s position were we to leave the UK. Herman Van Rompuy, the President of the European Council this week said: “If a part of the territory of a Member State ceases to be a part of that state because that territory becomes a new Member State, the treaties will no longer apply to that territory. In other words, a new independent state would, by fact of its independence, become a third country with respect to the Union and the treaties would, from the day of its independence, not apply anymore on its territory.” The position of the leaders of Europe on the question of reapplying for EU membership could not be clearer. Jose Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission: “A new state, if it wants to join the EU, has to apply to become a member of the EU.” Mariano Rajoy, Prime Minister of Spain: “It is clear to me that a region which asks for independence

from a state within the European Union, will be left outside the EU. It is good thing that the citizens, the Scottish people know this, along with other Europeans.” This follows heated debate at this week’s First Ministers Questions in which Alex Salmond was branded “the Pinocchio of Scottish politics” having being caught misleading parliament three times over his assertions on the EU. Firstly Salmond told us he had specific legal advice on Europe when in fact none existed. Then Salmond quoted one sentence from a letter he found on the internet to support his increasingly isolated position. And thirdly Salmond ignored the official posi-

tion on EU entry which had been outlined in a letter available to the Parliament, using the internet letter instead. It is simply yet more evidence that the nationalists will say and do anything to get people to vote for separation. Instead of misleading the Scottish Parliament, Alex Salmond should be straight with the people of Scotland. In contrast to the nationalists’ changing assertions, the position of the leaders of Europe is clear. They have repeated again and again that Scotland would not automatically become a member of the EU. It is time that the nationalists were honest on the EU.

Friday 20th December 2013

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Friday 20th December 2013

July

January SHETTLESTON Bowling Club champion Ian Beattie had the honour of becoming the first club member to win three major singles trophies on their 106 year history. Ian won the Championship trophy, the President’s cup and the Co-Op Cup.

Under-15 players from the Scottish Youth Football Association West Region headed to Spain to compete at the Donasti Cup. The event, held in San Sebastian, attracts 200 teams from over 30 countries at various age levels. Association Secretary Jim

GLASGOW City FC also announced a fixture against top European opposition as they were invited to play German Champions FFC Turbine Potsdam. The fixture was part of Potsdam’s 40th anniversary celebrations at the new MBS Indoor Arena in Potsdam.

August

February SYFA West Region had the Denmark Cup in mind when they impressed with a 5-2 win over Motherwell F.C. (2000) team at K-Park Academy, East Kilbride. The boys were putting themselves in contention to play for Scotland at the Denmark Cup held in the summer.

GLASGOW City F.C. boosted their squad with two new signings for their Women’s Champion’s League campaign. In a double swoop they signed Northern Ireland international Julie Nelson and Republic of Ireland striker Denise O’Sullivan.

THE Jim Dolan National player initiative launched at Toryglen Regional Football Centre. Scottish Youth Football Association Chief Executive said “The Jim Dolan National Player Development is unique in that the sole purpose is to increase the skills of young players.”

Shot Stoppers Academy had another success story. The Goalkeeper coaching academy, has produced 87 Junior and professional ‘keepers - including Scotland international David Marshall - thanks to a forward-thinking and innovative specialist coaching structure.

FORMER Clyde Boy’s Club founder/official Archie Murray died at Faulds Care Home. His funeral was well attended at St Michael’s R.C. Church, Parkhead, and Glasgow Crematorium. For many years Archie lived on Tollcross Road and was a regular visitor to the old Gen newspaper office.

The latest success story is Conner Cullen (16) who has signed a two year professional contract with Celtic FC. Conner was wanted by a host of clubs and along with Sean Brown (Dundee United) and Rhys Murray (Motherwell) is the latest Shot Stoppers graduate to sign professional terms.

October

April GLASGOW N.E. Bowls league announced Bill’s Tool Store (Gallowgate) as the sponsor for the league. One change resulted at their Annual General Meeting when it was announced that three clubs would be promoted and relegated instead of five as it had been previously.

TYNECASTLE AFC held their annual player of the year awards. James Jordan won Manager’s Player of the Year, Chris Hughes won Man of the Match Player of the Year, Chris Muir won Player’s Playe rof the Year and Recognition award and James Cochrane won Top Scorer.

September

March POSTAL United A.F.C. announced they would be moving out of the Scottish Amatuer Football League at the end of the s 2012-2013 season. In the 2011-12 season United won the treble including the SAFL Premier Division Championship.

Smith said “I was delighted when the organisers contacted me to ask if a team could be sent from Scotland.” The Under-15s were Scotland’s sole representative at the tournament. An Under-16 squad was also heading to Spain to compete in a tournament held in Barcelona.

GLASGOW City F.C. clinched their seventh straight SWPL championship. After clinching their title they were preparing for another Women’s Champion’s League campaign. A two legged tie would set up a ‘Battle of Britain’ clash with Arsenal Ladies.

GLASGOW CITY clashed with Celtic in the Quarter Final of the Scottish Premier League Cup at Petershill Park. City beat Celtic 2-1 after Jo Love gave CIty a half time lead. Substitute Abigail Harrison made it 2-0 before Abigail Harrison netted Celtic’s reply ten minutes from time.

Broomhouse F.C. started the season the way they ended the last by winning more silverware. A 5-1 victory over Castlemile A.F.C. saw the East End side clinch the annual East Kilbride Y.M. Invitation tournament in style at Ballerup Sports Park (East Kilbride).

November

May BANNERMAN High celebrated a historic school double at Under-15 and Under-16 level. The Under-15s defeated Dunbar Academy on penalties to clinch the Lloyds TSB Scotland Under-15 Shield. The Under-16s beat St Thomas Aquainas 2-1 in the Glasgow Schools F.A. Senior Cameronian Cup Final.

GLASGOW City F.C. wrote another chapter in the history of Scottish Women’s Football. An 88th minute goal at Broadwood Stadium against Hibernian was enough to win the Scottish Cup Final - and complete a domestic treble for

the second consecutive season. The Premier League Champions and League Cup winners have now amassed eight domestic trophies in a row. They were also in action in the Women’s Champions League, losing out to 2007 winners Arsenal Ladies in their last 16 tie.

Wellhouse Amateurs won the Foster’s Scottish Cup for the first time in their history. In a dramatic final in Livingston 10 man ‘House, who had goalkeeper Darren Logan sent off in normal time, triumphed 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw against Colville Park.

TOWER Hearts won the National Lady Darling Cup - after a dramatic extra-time victory against Cavalry Park Colts. Hearts went down 1-0 before coming back to equalise before half time. The tie went to extra time and in the 100th minute Hearts scored the winner to win 2-1.

ENDING another year with the Re-Gen sport we look back with thanks and gratitude to the tireless effort of our sports reporter

Tom Scott, who over the years has shown character and determination in reporting on local community sport and we look forward to

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BROOMHOUSE F.C. were crowned champions in the Greater Glasgow Premier Amateur League. ‘House stormed to success as Division 4 champions of an 18 game (17 wins) domestic campaign, scoring 132 goals and only conceding 12 in the entire campaign.

June

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his continued coverage throughout 2014. We wish him and all his readers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

31 CLUB NEWS...FEATURES...MATCH ACTION REPORTS SPECIAL...CALL 0141 375 0488 Friday 20th December 2013

SEND COPY TO RE-GEN SPORTS DESK, REDTREE BUSINESS CENTRE, 33 DALMARNOCK ROAD, GLASGOW G40 4LA

FINNART ENERGY BOOST

FINNART A.F.C. Under-14 are now looking the part off the park - thanks to a boost from DM Energy Services. The Dalmarnock Road-based company recently agreed to sponsor quality winter jackets, which arrived in time before the winter weather really sets in!

Coach Jamie McGowan told Re-Gen Sport: “We can’t thank owner Joe Morris enough for his sponsorship. “Joe is a great guy, and he really cares about the local community. We are very lucky to have him on board as a sponsor.”

MATCH ACTION REPORTS

Speaking exclusively to ReGen Sport Mr Morris revealed: “We have been operational for seven months. “All of my family come from Dalmarnock, and I was delighted to help Jamie out following an approach from a third party.”

FINNART A.F.C. Parents and Players came together for a major fundraiser as our photograph shows. The magnificent sum of £700 was raised. Well done to all concerned.

LOOKING GOOD...Finnart A.F.C. Under-14 players display their new jackets sponsored by DM Energy Services. Left to right - William Gray, Kieran Frame, Kalvin Rooney, Bailey McGuire and Adam Corner.

WINTER CARPET BOWLS CHAMPIONS North British are ready to target another Eastern Carpet Bowls League championship, writes JACK HIGH. The initial 10-week block of fixtures in the domestic campaign has produced some thrilling action. A list of other games, starting week commencing January 27, 2014, has already been distributed to all clubs.

WEEK 4: Shettleston 0 points, North British 6 points ( 12-17 shots); Sandyhills 2 points, Mount Vernon 4 points 9 (16-34 shots). WEEK 5: Mount Vernon 2 points, Shettleston 4 points ( 1723 shots); Springboig 2 points, Garrowhill 4 points ( 11-24 shots). WEEK 6: North British 4 points, Mount Vernon 2 points (26-18 shots); Shettleston 4 points, Garrowhill 2 points ( 22-12 shots);

Sandyhills 6 points, Springboig 0 points ( 33-10 shots). WEEK 7: Garrowhill 6 points, North British 0 points (37-5 shots); Sandyhills 2 points, Shettleston 4 points ( 19-18 shots). WEEK 8: Springboig 4 points, Mount Vernon 2 points ( 25-24 shots); North British 4 points, Springboig 2 points ( 30-11 shots ). WEEK 9: Shettleston 4 points, Springboig 2 points ( 29-18 shots).

FOSTERS SCOTTISH CUP SATURDAY: Second Round - Tarbet 3, Yoker 5 aet. Third Round - Bankhead 1, Rhu 4; Dumbarton Harp 2, Eaglesham 3; Finnart 4, Giffnock 1; Yoker 2, Vale of Leven 3. Replay - Carrick 2, Cowie 0; Westwood 1, Campsie Minerva 5. Fourth Round - Ardrossan 1, Cumbernauld Colts 2; Blochairn Star 4, Newtonhill

3; Bowhill 5, Easthall Star 1; Buckhaven Town 0, Dennistoun AFC 1; Drumchapel AFC 4, Jeanfield Swifts 2; Edinburgh Rose 4, Garrowhill Thistle 3; Glasgow Harp 3, Auchterarder 0; Neilston 0, Dennistoun Vale 2; Possil YMAFC 12, Dysart 2; Steins 4, Baillieston Thistle 3; Wellhouse ( holders) 5, Hillington AFC 2; Burghmuir 0, Colville Park 9.

Colville Park Country Club West of Scotland Cup, Third Round - Greenock HSFP 5, EKFC Whitehills 2; Wellhouse 1, Bannockburn 2 aet; Overtoun Thistle 5, Paisley Athletic 1; Crosshill Thistle 2, Tynecastle AFC 3; Dirrans 5, Calderglen 0; St Joseph’s 3, Stewarton 4; Drumchapel Colts 2, Milton 3; Cardross 1, Weirs 1; Whitefield Rovers 8, Blantyre Rangers 2.

LSK SUPPLIES WEST YOUTHS Lady Darling Cup Second Round - Stewarton Annick 0, Rosyth 3; Barrhead YFC 1, Knightsbridge Vennie 0. Third Round - Lochend 1, Barrhead YFC 0; Harmony Row 6, Musselburgh Windsor Colts 0; Falkirk Athletic 5, Bonnyton Thistle 5 aet ( 4-1 pens); Bonnyrigg Rose 2, Port Glasgow 0; Tynecastle 1, Victoria F.C. 0; Mansewood 2, Sauchie 9. LSK Supplies West of Scotland Cup - Steins 2, Castlemilk AFC 1; Port Glasgow 1, Campsie Black Watch 5; Antonine 1, Erskine YFC 1 ( 4-2 on pens). Birdston Kennels League Cup - Falkirk Ath 4, Campsie Black Watch 3; Baillieston Juniors 2, Steins Th 0; Rutherglen Glencairn 2, Harmony Row 1; Clydeside 2, East Kilbride FC 15; Rossvale 2, Tower Hearts 5; Glasgow Ams/ Arthurlie 1, East Kilbride Rolls Royce 3.

Birdston Kennels Glasgow Cup - Mill United 5, Victoria F.C. 0;Erskine 1, Wishaw W Wanderers 4. Only Sport Golden Goals Tower Hearts 3, Rutherglen Glencairn 3 (3-1 pens); Arsenal BC 3, Harestanes 1; Glasgow University 0, Kilsyth 1; East Kilbride F.C. 2, St Peters Giffnock North 1; Baillieston Juniors 3, Johnstone Burgh 3 ( 4-3 on pens). Premier Division - St Peters Giffnock North 2, Clydebank 1; Clydebank 1, Johnstone Burgh 4; Glasgow Ams/ Arthurlie 3, Baillieston Juniors 0; Goldenhill 1, Campsie Black Watch 4; Rossvale 1, St Peters Giffnock North 1; Harestanes 1, Clydebank4; Rutherglen Glencairn 4, Steins 1; Bonnyton 1, Goldenhill 2. First Division - Claremont 1, Vale of Leven 3; Arsenal BC 1, Vale of Clyde 2; East Kilbride F.C. 3, Kilsyth St Pats 1; Vale

of Clyde 3, Eastwood 0; East Kilbride Rolls Royce 7, Busby 0; Pollok Juvs 8, Claremont 3; Antonine 2, Vale of Leven 1; Claremont 1, Eastwood 1; Falkirk 2, Vale of Leven 0; Arsenal BC 4, Glasgow University 2; Kilsyth 2, Busby 2; Vale of Clyde 2, Pollok Juveniles 2. Second Division - Castlemilk AFC 5, Calderhill Thistle 1; Cumbernauld Colts 2, Castlemilk BC 2; Sauchie 3, Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 2; St Columbas 3, Calderhill 2; Mill United 2, Cumbernauld Colts 1; Castlemilk BC 1, Wishaw W Wanderers 6; Erskine 3, Giffnock SC 2; Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 11, Gartcairn Academy 1; Calderhill 3, Cumbernauld Colts 1; Castlemilk AFC 1, Sauchie 4; Mansewood 1, St Columbas 7; Wishaw W Wanderers 4, Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 1; Victoria F.C. 4, Castlemilk BC 1; Stewart Annick 2, Mill United 5.

CROFTFOOT 0, FINNART 2. HAD Finnart netted all of their attempts on the ‘Foot goal at Drumoyne, this West Regional Cup first round scoreline would really have been impressive. However, the Under-14 squad managed a shut-out to advance into the second round. Kalvin Rooney fired over a first half corner to the back post, and Kenneth Crampsie netted. Rooney guaranteed the Bridgeton team their second-round ticket to Pollok United in the next round with their second goal. Kenneth Crampsie was named Man of the Match. DUNOON 0, FINNART AFC 3. ANOTHER clear sheet for the table-topping Under-14 team, and a nice return journey “doon the water” in the process! Jamie McGowan hit a cracking first half opener. Julien Kouame rattled home his first goal of the season (2-0), and McGowan added No 3 with a great ten-yard volley. The midfield passing of Connor McKenzie was excellent to watch. Man of the Match nomination was won by Persley Sojila, who was calm, cool and controlled at the back. Under-13 Regional Cup - Finnart A.F.C.0, Clydeside 9. GIRVAN JUNIORS 4, ASHFIELD JUNIORS 3. AN explosive Scottish Junior Cup replay. The pair shared eight goals in the first match at Saracen Park - and the fans certainly got their monies worth here. Ashfield led 3-1 after 11 minutes through Bert Wright (2) and Joe Barclay. The visitors’ had Gilmartin red carded before half-time. Girvan reduced the deficit even further and levelled through Jordan Ryan 55 minutes. The same player hit a dramtic winner 15 minutes from time. Alan Orr and Darren Mitchell also netted for Girvan. POLLOK JUNIORS 2, PETERSHILL JUNIORS 5. BOTH teams went into this Newlandsfield Park league meeting knowing a win had to be achieved at the wrong end of the Super Premier Division table - and Peasy could not have asked for a better first half! Stephen McGladrigan put them ahead after 23 mins, and Paul Woods added a second in 40 mins. Chris Mackie netted in first

half stoppage. Iain Diack replied for Pollok in the 65th minute, but McGladrigan answered the call again 16 minutes later. Back came ‘Lok, and Marco Andreoni set-up a grandstand finish with four minutes remaining, only to see substitute Ryan Smillie bag goal No 5 right at the end. Pollok had goalkeeper Jonny Murdoch sent off in the first half following an incident with a spectator... whew, what a match! CAMBUSLANG RANGERS 1, SHETTLESTON JUNIORS 2. BIG win for Town at Somervell Park. Goals from Brown ( 44 mins) and Cairney in the 65th minute. The result keeps Shettleston well within range of making a bid for promotion in the second half of this season. HAMILTON WEST 2, TYNECASTLE AFC 4. GREAT first round result in the Strathclyde Cup. Scorers: Edward, Cochrane, McGlinchey and Hayes. AS AIRDRIE 1, TYNECASTLE AFC 4. FIT-again James Jordan bagged a Premier League double. He had been out for nine weeks, but opened his account after 30 minutes. Tony Cahill headed a second five minutes later. Jordan netted again after great work by Jamie Cochrane. McCarthy scored with a leftfoot finish ( 4-0). Airdrie converted a penalty kick 10 minutes from time. POSTAL UNITED 2, WATERSIDE 3. UNITED lost their unbeaten record in the Central Scottish League at Haghill. Hughes penalty kick and Muir for the hosts. FINNART A.F.C. had a great 3-0 win against visitors Condorrat Amateurs. FINNART A.F.C. Under-19s came through an extra-time thriller against cup opponents Condorrat Yellow before winning 4-3. FINNART A.F.C. Under-14 table-toppers were held to a 0-0 GADYFL draw by Bellfield at Glasgow Green. SAFA SELECT 5, SAFL SELECT 1. INDOOR action at Ravenscraig. A hat-trick from David McKay in 43, 61 and 63 minutes. Other

goals came from Ryan Halpin and Jamie Broadfoot. BELLSHILL ATHLETIC 3, GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE 2. ‘SHIRE led 2-0 through Steele and a Trialist, but Athletic hit back to go top of the Central District First Division at Fullarton Park. ROSSVALE 2, ST ROCH 1. SECOND consecutive win for new Rossvale boss Alan Jack against ten-man St Roch. The visitors were forced into a late pre-match change when their first-choice goalkeeper complained of a thumb injury and was replaced by Grant Wood, who went on to have a great game. Rossvale went ahead with a penalty kick in 47 minutes. Martin Shiels equalised 10 minutes later. The Petershill Park hosts struck again to leave Candy Rock with a fourth consecutive defeat. Jonathan Hart, of St Roch, was sent off for two yellow cards. ASHVALE VICS 1, WELLHOUSE AMATEURS 8. PREMIER Division Vics scored early on. Wellhouse worked a short free kick move near the corner flag, and Chris Hopkins fired a great goal over everyone into the top corner. Bobby Paterson hit four goals, one from the penalty spot, James Dalzell netted twice and Andy Dorrans crashed home a glorious 25 yarder. Wellhouse secretary Robert Noble said: “The quality of some of these goals were amazing. Right out of any top league in the country, and a joy to watch.” GLASGOW CITY F.C., who swept to a second successive treble this season, have swooped to sign American defender Ella Stephan (24). Florida-born Stephan is a former U.S. National team player at all youth levels, and clearly demonstrates the ambition of Scotland’s top female football team. Eight City stars were in the 20-strong Scotland squad which jetted off to Brazil for a four-team tourney. Rachel Corsie, Leanne Ross, Leanne Crichton, Sarah Crilly, Nicky Docherty, Christie Murray, Jo Love and Eilish McSorley will feature against Canada, Brazil and Chile over a 7-day period.

Re-Gen Sports Feedback

Hi Tom, Delighted to see more space in the sports section.

I receive regular positive comments from people who follow our fortunes via your coverage.

Keep up the good work, Stuart Rae, Broomhouse F.C. Newsletter Editor

REDUCING YOUR ENERGY BILLS TO HEAT YOUR HOME AND SAVE YOU MONEY

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Wednesday 10am - 2pm Charity No. SCO01070

YEAR OF LOCAL SPORTING SUCCESS WHAT a record-breaking year 2013 was for local sport – in more ways than one!

GLASGOW CITY F.C. led the way on two fronts. Coach Eddie Wolecki Black masterminded a 7th successive SWPL title, a record-breaking sixth Scottish Cup final victory, and a domestic treble for the second year running. Scotland’s top female team were defeated by 2007 winners Arsenal in the last 16 of the Women’s Champions League, and delighted Petershill Park followers with their performances. The Scottish Sports Awards have recognised Glasgow City’s outstanding contribution by naming them “Team of the Year”. WELLHOUSE AMATEURS brought joy to secretary Robert Noble, who founded the club in 1976. Favourites Colville Park A.F.C. were beaten 4-3 on penalties in the Fosters Scottish Cup final at Livingston. POSTAL UNITED said farewell to the Scottish Amateur Football League, but not before they secured back-to-back Premier Division titles amid a

new life in the Central Scottish A.F.L.

BROOMHOUSE F.C. were almost unbeatable as they won Division 4 in the Greater Glasgow Amateur Football League at the first attempt, and started this season winning the East Kibride Y.M. Invitation Tournament. BANNERMAN High School (Baillieston), under much-respected coach Jack McGillivray, were crowned Scottish and British Under-15 champions for the first time in the school’s history. Little wonder the ex-professional footballer told Re-Gen Sport: “These lads had never won anything, but what an effort everyone put in. They deserve all the credit.” TOWER HEARTS boss Tommy Kelly celebrated a National Lady Darling Cup final victory against Cavalry Park Colts. Steven McGregor had put Colts ahead with a wonder goal, but it finished a fantastic Friday night for the East End Under-21 team. Graham Boyd equalised and Mark Scott headed their winning goal after 100 minutes.

PLAYERS WANTED FINNART A.F.C. (Bridgeton) are looking for players at Under-13 level. Boys born in 2001. Contact officials prior to their training night at Crownpoint on a Thursday (7pm). PETERSHILL B.C. 2001 require players ( all positions) for Saturday morning football. Training sessions are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. GREATER EASTERHOUSE Under-14 team seeking players for LYFA Sat-

Carpet Bowls League, and Alex Morrison, from the North Eastern League.

ill (singles), Whitevale (pairs), Blackhill (triples) and Chryston (fours).

MARYHILL JUNIORS, at the third time of asking, secured promotion to the Central District First Division behind champions Cambuslang Rangers.

BILL’S TOOL STORE again sponsored the GNEBL. Whitevale won Division 1, and Carmyle topped Division 2. In a rain-interrupted play-off on Mount Vernon, Carmyle won by 19 shots over 11 ends.

NORTH BRITISH won the Eastern Carpet Winter League title.

ANDREW PALMER and LAURA WELSH won the Garrowhill Mens’ and Ladies’ Singles Championship respectively.

IAN BEATTIE (Shettleston) notched a remarkable 10th Club Championship at Culrain Street, and Bowls Scotland District Singles title.

BAILLIESTON Senior Fours Ladies’ were successful at Northfield, Ayr.

BOWLING news has seldom been out of our sports pages thanks to the outstanding contributions made by Ian Colligan, Secretary of the Eastern

MOUNT VERNON hosted the Jubilee Finals in September. Despite a strong wind, winning shields went to Kirkh-

LEAFLET DROP

urday Morning League. Train on a Tuesday and Thursday. Call 07779161347. BUDHILL A.F.C. require players for their new amateur football team. Contact 07702131328. RANGERS SABC require players. 07908996257.

GLASGOW CITY F.C. - named Team of the Year. FINNART A.F.C. Under-13 team won the Blackpool Cup at Easter.

2003 Call

PARTICK WEST A.F.C. want experienced players and a team manager. Phone 07825295898 or 07727632618.

FINNART A.F.C. Under-14 playersw and coaches carried out a leaflet drop on a good part of the houses surrounding Dalmarnock Primary School. The team were helping to promote sponsors DM Energy,

who run their business from premises in Dalmarnock Road. Said Coach Jamie McGowan: “It was a good warmup for the lads before training - and came prior to the arrival of heavy rain!”

WEST REGION UPDATE THREE Under-15 clubs featured in the West Regional Cup. Celtic won 3-2 at Barrhead, Rangers SABC crushed hosts Mearns 5-1, and the Old Firm Alliance were hammered 6-0 by Fulham. In the Scottish Cup age groups, East End teams

recorded some excellent results. Rangers SABC Under-13 won 6-0 at Largs. Celtic BC Under-14 de molished Grahamston 10 - 0, and Celtic Youth edged out Lenzie 2-1. Baillieston Juniors Under-19 had a hardfought 5 - 3 win over Musselburgh.

MARGARET McMILLAN was crowned Ladies’ Singles

Champion for a third consecutive year and 7th overall.

TOLLCROSS won the Glasgow Cup for the first time in their history.

NEW RUGBY SEARCH GLASGOW East Rugby Club are aiming to find and develop more stars of the future. With a break planned over the festive period until January 12, 2014, coaches plan to focus their time on boosting overall numbers throughout various age groups. Barrachnie Park remains their Sunday base from 12 noon, but P7 coach Bruce Orrock told me: “We are hoping to get enough coaches together in the New Year to re-start Thursday sessions. “The club work on developing youngsters from P1 to P7, plus

S1, S2 and S3. “Ideally we could do with finding youngsters keen on the game at P4, P5 and P6 level.” Anyone interested should call 07522650827. Meanwhile, Glasgow Phoenix are seeking men and women (all ages) to boost their mixed “touchteam” group. Said Bruce Orrock: “It is a great way to make friends and at the same time keep yourself fit. “We cater for all levels and would love to hear from local people. They can get more information from me on 07522650827.”

JUNIOR CUP DATES

SCOTTISH Junior Cup dates for the next three rounds are: Fourth Round - January 18,

2014. Fifth Round - February 15. and Sixth Round ( Quarter-Finals) - March 15.

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