The Genn issue 145 by The Genn Newspaper

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PROUD TO BE SCOTTISH

Glasgow East and North News

20-21

Look Forward Facts about every month

Next Edition 16th January 2015

Get Home Safely Advice from Police Scotland

Music A look at upcoming events with Mark Johnson

32-36

Sport Look back at the year with Tom Scott

CELEBRATING 2015

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our patients

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BENEFITS OF COMBINED POLICE FORCE UNCLEAR IT is too early to say whether the intended benefits of creating a single Scottish police force have been realised, a report has said. The Inspector of Constabulary (HMICS), Derek Penman, said the force had met savings targets for its first year. But in his annual report, he said financial challenges persist. He said the reform had been effective, with front line policing continuing and minimal impact to the services provided to communities. But he said local authorities should assert themselves in expressing their concerns where decisions taken nationally impact on their areas. Police Scotland was created in April of last year by merging eight regional forces and the Scottish Crime and Drugs En-

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forcement Agency (SCDEA). The Scottish government said it would lead to savings of £1.5bn over 15 years The creation of the single police service was criticised by many local authorities who claimed local accountability would be reduced. And Mr Penman said genuine engagement with communities would help the force to be successful and said Police Scotland is operationally effective, with crime falling to a 40year low, and it is better placed to deal with major events than the forces it replaced. He called on councils to “assert themselves” to hold divisional commanders to account for the delivery of local policing plans and to voice their concerns about the impact of national policies on their own areas.

MIDWIVES AT HIGH COURT THE UK’s highest court has told two Catholic midwives they do not have the right to avoid supervising other nurses involved in abortion procedures. Ms Doogan, from Garrowhill in Glasgow, and Mrs Wood, from Clarkston in East Renfrewshire, were employed as labour ward co-ordinators at the Southern General Hospital in Glasgow. The Abortion Act of 1967 gives staff the right to conscientiously object to participating in abortions - the question at the centre of this case was: What constitutes participation? Mary Doogan and Concepta Wood wanted to be absolved from anything which led to a termination, including managing junior staff who were treating women having terminations. Their employer, NHS Great-

er Glasgow and Clyde, argued that this would make staffing a hospital impossible, and that it was not unreasonable to ask them to carry out managerial duties. What is surprising is that there have been so few challenges over more than four decades to this section of the Abortion Act. This judgement brings some clarity to what has been a grey area. The midwives previously won their case at the Court of Session in Edinburgh but the Supreme Court in London ruled that Mary Doogan and Connie Wood should have to support staff who are caring for patients having terminations. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s appeal said the right to abstain should only extend to treatment ending a pregnancy.

POLICE ARE WARNING DRIVERS NOT TO RISK IT

Glasgow East and North News

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SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2015 2015 Return to School

Monday 5 January 2015

Second Mid-Term

Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 February 2015

Spring Holiday

Friday 3 to Friday 17 April 2015 (inclusive) Good Friday is 3 April 2015 and Easter Monday is 6 April 2015 * Please note that schools will close at 2.30pm on the last school day before the holiday

May Day

Monday 4 May 2015

May Weekend

Friday 22 and Monday 25 May 2015

School Close

Wednesday 24 June 2015

Return Date for Teachers

Tuesday 11 August 2015

Return Date for Pupils

Thursday 13 August 2015

September Weekend

Friday 25 and Monday 28 September 2015

First Mid-Term

Monday 12 to Friday 16 October 2015 (inclusive)

Christmas/New Year

* Please note that schools will close at 2.30pm on the last school day before the holiday

In-Service days

Wednesday 11 February 2015 - All Schools Thursday 7 May 2015 - All Schools Tuesday 11 August 2015 - All Schools Wednesday 12 August 2015 - All Schools Thursday 24 September 2015 - North West Area Thursday 29 September 2015 - North East Area

GENN Glasgow East and North News

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POLICE have issued a stark warning to locals on drink driving over the festive season. On December 5, a new law came in to force in Scotland making the drink drive limit lower than the rest of the UK. The limit has been reduced from 80mg to 50mg in every 100ml of blood. Since the law came in to force, people in the area have failed a breathalyser limit. The message is clear - don’t drink and drive during the festive season - as it’s just not worth it. The main aim is to keep people safe in community and that

includes those who are using the roads. Drink driving is unacceptable in society but as can be seen from those who have been caught in recent weeks there are still drivers prepared to take a risk. If you drink and drive you can expect to be stopped, arrested and detained to appear at court. With additional resources throughout Glasgow, supported by specialist departments both in marked and unmarked patrols right through the festive period and beyond. “Drivers also need to be mindful of the effects of alcohol the

morning after and should think very carefully before getting behind the wheel.” The Scottish Parliament voted unanimously in favour of the new law on November 18. According to dontriskit.info, a website informing people of the risks of drink driving, it’s estimated that Police Scotland stop over 80,000 vehicles each month, with around 20,000 offences detected every month. A conviction for being over the limit could result in a loss of licence, a fine of up to £5,000, a criminal record and risk of imprisonment

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GENN RE-APPEAL FOR RE-USE WITNESSES ATTEMPTED YOUR BAGS MURDER – CARNTYNE THIS YEAR

POLICE at Shettleston are re-appealing for witnesses and information following the attempted murder of an 18 yearold man in Carntyne, Glasgow on Sunday 30 November 2014. Around 2000 hours on Sunday 30 November, the 18 year-old man was walking with two friends in Inveresk Street, Carntyne when a black coloured car, believed to be a Volkswagen Golf drove towards him and struck him. The car stopped and a man got out the passenger seat and argued with the 18 year-old man. The passenger got back into the car and it drove off only when it returned a short time later and struck him again. Detective Sergeant William Downie at Shettleston CID said: “Since this attempted murder was reported to us, extensive enquiries have been carried out to trace the vehicle involved and its occupants. We are still working to establish the motive behind this

incident. “We believe that the car involved was a black Volkswagen Golf and I would ask the public for any information that may assist our ongoing investigation. Has anyone noticed a car matching this description with accident damage - particularly to the front of it, or has anyone recently been asked to repair this type of car? “The 18 year-old victim was initially taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary, but has since been transferred to Southern General Hospital and his condition has improved slightly. Hospital staff describe his current condition as serious. “I would still urge any witnesses, or anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police to come forward to officers. Shettleston Police Office can be contacted by dialling 101. Alternatively contact CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

ZERO Waste Scotland is helping Scotland to become more efficient in its use of resources. As a facilitator and enabler of change, they help to reduce waste, increase energy efficiency and promote responsible water use – all as part of a journey towards a low-carbon, sustainable economy. Two months after the introduction of the carrier bag charge in Scotland, they are reminding shoppers to bring their re-usable bags for the final weekend of Christmas shopping. The Scottish Government’s carrier bag charge regulations, which came into force on 20th October this year, require all retailers to charge a minimum of 5p for every single-use carrier bag distributed. Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “I would urge everyone to reuse their bags when they head to the shops – not just this weekend, but every day.

Young Scots Record Christmas Single To Back Charity Appeal

YOU don’t see many pop stars donning their Christmas jumpers in the recording studio. But for a group of aspiring young musicians from Glasgow, Christmas jumpers were the order of the day when they got together to write and record a brand new Christmas single to benefit Yorkhill Children’s Charity. With the support of local community radio station Pulse 98.4’s Start Up to Saturday show, local stars Robbi McFaulds, Nicole Hamilton, Angel Gold & Rachelle & Brittany recorded the catchy tune. Explaining the decision to donate all proceeds to Yorkhill lead singer Robbi, 16, said: “We’re all really proud of Now That It’s Christmas Time.

Everyone donated their time for free, including Brick Lane Recording Studios, and there’s just such a sense of the community coming together to do something good for such a worthy local cause. “We all have connections to Yorkhill through friends or family and wanted to raise as much money as possible to support the charity’s Christmas Appeal. As musicians, what better way to support them than by recording a single? “All of the money raised from people buying the song online or picking up the CD will go to Yorkhill Children’s Charity. I hope that everyone picks up a few copies as stocking fillers for Christmas Day!”

Kirsten Sinclair, Head of Fundraising at Yorkhill Children’s Charity, said: “We are delighted that these young musicians have given their time and talent to raise money for our Christmas Appeal. We’re hoping to raise £500,000, and simply couldn’t reach this target without the support of fundraisers, volunteers and supporters. I’d urge everyone to go online and download the song! At 79p it doesn’t cost much, but all of the pennies add up to pounds and every single download helps.” The track is now available on iTunes and Amazon and it has even been listed on the UK Charts.

DUKE STREET DRUGS BUST THREE people have been arrested following an intelligence-led operation carried out by officers from Glasgow’s Serious and Organised Crime Team. Around 0900 hours on Wednesday 17 December 2014,

officers, acting under warrant, entered a commercial premise in Duke Street, Glasgow where they discovered a small cannabis cultivation site, worth an estimated street value of more than £3,000. Officers also seized firearms

in the operation. One man, aged 60, has been arrested in connection with alleged firearms and drugs offences. Two women, aged 37 and 34, have been arrested in connection with alleged drugs offences.

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Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas

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PREPARE TO GET JUST WHAT YOU DIDN’T WANT RESEARCH, reveals that nearly a third (29%) of individuals said that they receive unwanted gifts at Christmas. Late shopping means, consumers are more likely to buy unwanted gifts in the rush before Christmas. Key findings from recent research include: • 29% of people say 10% of the gifts they receive are unwanted • Over a quarter (26%) give their unwanted gifts to charity shops • 16% plan to sell the gifts that they do not want • Over a quarter (26%) wait until after February before disposing of unwanted gifts • 8% of individuals can’t wait to re-gift or resell an item and do so immediately A lot of money can be spent on presents for family and friends at Christmas which can leave people struggling financially in the new year. Yet research seems to suggest that some of the expense is not even appreciated. For some of those who do receive unwanted presents, it seems that they see this as an opportunity to save on future gift buying with 18% admitting that they would ‘re-gift’. However, the spirit of the festive season does seem to be felt by some, with just over a quarter (26%) saying they donate unwanted gifts to charity.” The seasonal research also reveals that when it comes to dealing with unwanted gifts, over a quarter wait until after February. However, 11% are more hasty, only waiting until the week after Christmas and 18% dispose of unwanted gifts in January. Some people can prove very difficult to buy gifts for at Christmas, and the research provides an interesting insight into what happens to unwanted presents. It may be that a bit more planning could be the key to getting that perfect present and ensuring that loved ones don’t feel disappointed on Christmas Day.

MSP meets Christmas card competition winner

LAST week Glasgow MSP Humza Yousaf met the winner of his Christmas card competition and presented him with his prize. The competition winner is Aaron Phillips, who is in P5/6 at Haghill Park Primary School. Aaron’s card has been printed and will be sent out to local groups, organisations and individuals during the festive period. Commenting, Humza Yousaf said: “Congratulations to Aaron on

his fantastic winning Christmas card, and I’m looking forward to sending out his card this week. It was great to meet Aaron and say well done in person, and give him his Christmas card of course! “I chose Aaron’s card because of his great depiction of Glasgow landmarks, and as it’s bright and colourful it will stand out on people’s mantelpieces. “Thank you to all the pupils who submitted entries to the competition, and congratulations to you all.”

UK first as iconic Glasgow multi-storeys to be demolished

SCOTLAND’S tallest residential multi-storeys will disappear from the Glasgow skyline in a landmark demolition. The iconic Whitevale and Bluevale high-rise flats in the Gallowgate will be deconstructed piece by piece. The 31-storey blocks, which stretch to 85 metres, will be demolished by specialist staff on a platform placed on top of the building. The demolition is part of GHA’s commitment to regenerating communities across the city. Alex McGuire, Director of Property for GHA’s parent company Wheatley Group said: “The Gallowgate Twins have a special place in people’s hearts and in Glasgow’s history, but their time has come to an end. “This unique demolition is another important step in the ongoing regeneration of housing in the city and will ensure our homes are fit for future generations.” The ‘TopDownWay’ demo-

lition technology – which has been used before in Italy and France - was chosen due to the close proximity of the neighbouring block and nearby roads and also the unique core structure of the blocks. Some of the tenants who lived at Bluevale and Whitevale moved into the 62-home GHA development across the road which opened last year. Other tenants moved to upgraded GHA homes in the areas of their choice or into houses belonging to other Registered Social Landlords. Bluevale and Whitevale were regarded as Scotland’s tallest residential buildings when they were built in 1969. They were eclipsed in the early 1970s by three London tower blocks in the 42-storey Barbican Estate. Demolition contractor Safedem will begin lifting the platform on to the roof of 109 Bluevale Street next month. Work is expected to be complete by summer 2015.

The deconstruction of 51 Whitevale Street will begin soon after, with the site cleared by 2016. The deconstruction system is unique as it avoids the need for scaffolding. A platform on top of the building allows staff to remove walls and floors piece by piece. Once work on each floor is complete, the platform descends down the building until it reaches ground level. William Sinclair, Safedem Managing Director, said: “We carefully assess every project before developing the safest and most appropriate method of demolition. The ‘TopDownWay’ is an innovative system designed for the deconstruction of high-rise structures in close proximity to nearby properties.” The future use of the Whitevale and Bluevale site will be subject to discussion with Glasgow City Council, in line with the city’s local housing strategy.

WRESTLING STARS COME TO GLASGOW THE TNA Maximum Impact Tour is coming to Glasgow Hydro for one night only on the 29th of January 2015. TNA currently have some the biggest superstars in wrestling on their roster including Kurt Angle, Bully Ray, James Storm, Bobby Roode, Mr Anderson, Velvet Sky and British World Heavyweight Champion Magnus. Actual line up still to be finalised. TNA Wrestling President Dixie Carter said: “Everyone knows that the

UK Tour is one of the highlights of the year for everyone in TNA Impact Wrestling, so I’m excited to announce that we’re coming back in 2015. Fan interaction tickets will probably become available closer to the event date. This is where you will be able to meet some of your favourite wrestlers before the show. In previous years this came with a strictly limited-edition official Maximum iMPACT! autograph book.

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GENN TOP MARKS FOR HELPING THE COMMUNITY PUPILS from two Glasgow schools have been praised after doing their bit to help improve the local community. The pupils from John Paul Academy, Summerston and Cleveden Secondary in the west end took part in a work experience initiative run by Action for Children and supported by Maryhill Housing Association. Known as the “Lochburn Challenge Project” nine of them got stuck in to clearing shrubs, improving pathways and even planting fruit trees in the Lochburn area of Maryhill. The aim of the four-weeklong project was to give them experience of work while helping to improve the appearance

of the area. It also helped improve their employability skills as they learned how to work as part of a team. Last week a special ceremony was held in Maryhill to thank the young people and present them with certificates marking their achievements. It was attended by housing association staff, teachers and local Councillor John Letford who praised the “hard work and dedication” of those involved. During their time in Maryhill, the young people were also given the opportunity to tour the new Mayhill Locks housing development which has been

built by the housing association. It is the biggest expansion of housing in Maryhill for decades and is providing brand new homes for tenants with a small number available to buy. Maryhill Housing Association has collaborated with Action for Children before – giving other young people experience of work while improving the appearance of the community. Ruth Adam of Maryhill Housing Association said: “This project was a great success and parts of our community have been transformed thanks to these young people. We hope they found the experience worthwhile.”

ELECTRICAL SAFETY FIRST WELCOMES FEWER FIRES IN SCOTTISH HOMES ELECTRICAL Safety First is delighted that the number of fires in Scottish homes has decreased this year – but the Charity warns that there is still much to be done to keep people safe around electricity According to just-released figures from the Scottish Government, the number of domestic fires in Scotland decreased by 9% this year, falling from 5,834 in 2013 to 5,330. However, the total number of fires in Scotland – including those occurring outdoors and in commercial premises, as well as

those considered ‘non-accidental’ – has grown. “Around two thirds of all domestic fires in Scotland are caused by electricity, with electrical products the prime culprit” explains Emma Apter, Head of Communications at Electrical Safety First. “Given the issue in Scotland with fake and substandard goods – since 2010, Glasgow’s enforcement agencies, for example, have seized almost 10,000 fake electrical items, more than any other UK Local Authority – we can’t afford to become

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complacent about fires in the home.” Electrical Safety First was instrumental in ensuring that the recent Scottish Housing Bill included a requirement for regular electrical safety checks in all privately rented accommodation. And the Charity was delighted to be invited to join a Scottish Government- led consortium considering a common, cross-tenure house condition standard, which will go some way to progressing Scotland’s aim of sustainable and safe housing for all

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UNTIL Sunday 11 January 2015* the ultimate adrenaline junkies’ playground, the IRNBRU Carnival, is set to take over the SECC, Glasgow once again. Celebrating 94 years of family fun, the Carnival is Europe’s largest indoor funfair with over 60 rides and attractions. With new and exciting additions this year, it’s set to

be even bigger and better than ever before. Making a debut this year is the ‘Crazy Mouse’, a thrilling roller-coaster that will send the daredevils in the family on a speed frenzy journey. Also new for 2014, is the ‘Dreams Live’ and ‘TopFlip’ which will take riders on an up-sidedown spin. Visitors can reach new heights on the returning ‘Extreme XL’ as the IRN-BRU Carnival ventures outside the SECC and onto the banks of the River Clyde. Expect to scream at the top of your lungs as you are spun and swung 50ft feet into the air! For kids both big and small,

the firm favourites are back again. There’s fun for all the family on the Teacups, Dodgems and Carousel whilst older families will enjoy the Drop Zone and Speed Buzz. This year there will also be theme days, giving kids and grown-ups alike the chance to dress up as their favourite childhood characters. So dig out those costumes because the IRN-BRU Carnival is going to be overrun by pirates, princesses, superheroes, villains and many more. As a family ‘must do’, make sure to visit the IRN-BRU Carnival this year as part of your family’s festive fun!

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HALF OF CHILDREN TO GET MOBILES

GEORGE SQUARE BIN LORRY CRASH

• Children as young as 4 years old receiving mobile phones this Christmas. • Peer pressure is parent’s number 1 reason for buying. • 72% of parents opting for a contract instead of pay as you go. Prospective parents might want to look away now. A new survey has found that children in the UK as young as 4 receiving a brand new mobile phone from Santa at Christmas. The survey quizzed 3150 parents with children aged between 4 and 12 years old on the most popular products that made up their shopping list for Christmas 2014. Gadgets were a strong performer throughout with 53% of parents listing a mobile phone as being on their shopping list. Other popular gifts were Tablet Computers (59%), Games Consoles (38%) and the Kidizoom Smart Watch (25%). Overall a gadget in some shape or form was on 96% of parents Christmas shopping lists. The survey then invited the

1670 parents who listed a mobile phone on their list to answer further questions about their buying habits. Key findings included: • 95% of parents will be buying their children full blown smartphones as opposed feature phones that do not have apps or full internet access. • 55% admitted the number one reason they were buying a mobile phone was because their child’s friends owned one. 32% stated safety. • 72% of parents will buy a contract phone instead of pay as you go. • 48% believe contract phones offer better deals and 39% revealed that a contract helped make the phone more affordable as the payments were spread across 24 months. • On average parents will look to pay around £25 per month (£300 per year) on a contract phone for their child. • The most popular handsets included the iPhone 5S (36%), the iPhone 4S (23%), Samsung Galaxy S4 (14%) and the Moto G (11%) The findings make it seem

the entire world has gone mobile so it’s no real surprise that young children are getting their hands on a smartphone this Christmas. “My Kids asked for months before they got a phone, now it seems children don’t even have to ask; they’re just given one because all their friends have one. One area of concern was the money parents spend on handsets. We are seeing more and more parents splash the cash on high end smartphones when they really don’t need to. Even the hard-core smartphone user rarely uses an iPhone to its full potential so for a child at primary school age it is complete overkill. Solution, point parents in the direction of cheaper handsets and also go for PAYG over a pay monthly deal. It means parents are not taking on credit just to satisfy their children during the festive season and they’re also a good way of teaching children financial control and budgeting from a young age.

PRE-CHRISTMAS horror with a number of fatalities, fist feared to reach into double figures as the city centre was packed with Christmas shoppers. The bin lorry crashed into the Millennium Hotel on George Square, next to Queen Street station. It wasn’t immediately clear what caused the lorry to lose control. Witnesses said the driver had been travelling north on Queen Street when the vehicle seemed to lose con-

trol and then careered into George Square, knocking down bystanders, before becoming wedged in the hotel. Pieces of traffic lights and parts of cars hit were left strewn across the road. Officers were called to George Square at around 2.30pm. Eyewitnesses said fire engines and an ambulance were also at the scene. Two people were lying on the road covered by blankets at the corner of Queen Street and St Vincent Place.

Ambulance crews were treating them at the scene. An eye witness at the junction, said: “A bin lorry came through the lights at speed. “It crashed into the Millenium Hotel. It was terrifying. I just hope they’re alright.” Dozens of police officers ran to the scene. Many more arrived in cars and vans. They pushed people back behind makeshift barriers as the injured were driven away in ambulances.

GENN Dr Owl urges people across Scotland to know their opening times PEOPLE across Scotland are being encouraged to Be Health-Wise This Winter and know when their GP surgery is open over the festive holidays. Dr Owl – the wise and memorable character from the campaign – is advising people to be aware that GP surgeries will be open on Wednesday 24th December, before closing for four days - Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th. They will then reopen on Monday 29th December. GP surgeries will then follow normal opening hours until closing again on Thursday 1st January, re-opening again on Monday 5th January. As well as knowing the holiday opening and closure times of your local GP, people are also being urged to make sure they have cold and flu remedies to treat common winter ailments and to plan ahead for any required repeat prescriptions. Professor George Crooks, Medical Director of NHS 24, said: “Many GP surgeries will be closed for four days over Christmas and again at New Year, so it is essential that everyone is prepared and

knows exactly when their local services are available and how to access them.” He added: “If you are unlucky enough to get a cough, cold or flu, buying over the counter medicine, staying at home and keeping warm will make you feel much better. And remember that many pharmacies will be open over the festive period. Your local pharmacist is a good source of information and you don’t need an appointment to speak to them.” The national Be HealthWise this Winter campaign is

supported by NHS Scotland in partnership with NHS 24, the Scottish Ambulance Service, and all 14 Scottish Health Boards. Many GPs will be working hard throughout the festive period supporting local Out of Hours services and the Be Health-Wise This Winter campaign has the backing of the British Medical Association (BMA) in Scotland. General advice and information on how to stay healthy this winter can be found at www. nhsinform.co.uk/winter or contact NHS inform on 0800 22 44 88.

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Icy conditions and snow are causing havoc on the roads THE weather has definitely turned for the worse in the past days, so we would urge everyone to keep the conditions in mind whenever they’re on the road, watch for snow, sleet and rain as they all reduce visibility and mean slippery road surfaces, making it more likely people will experience a collision. Firefighters have even issued a warning following an acci-

dent where a man and a woman were rescued from a car after it veered off the snow covered in North Glasgow. Slippery conditions mean that it’s much easier to lose control when driving at faster speeds A number of other road accidents have been recorded in Scotland due to the winter conditions which have caused

freezing temperatures across the country. With emergency services being kept busy over the last weeks as car crashes have been recorded all over Scotland due to snow and ice. Police are working with councils to ensure safe diversions are being put in place on smaller roads which have not been gritted.

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Food for Thought Continues to Make a Difference in North Glasgow Food for Thought is a community led initiative supported by the Big Lottery Fund. It has three elements to it; Emergency Food assistance for people in crisis; community food events to connect the wider community; and a volunteer programme.

Con Carne (Mexican) Spaghetti Bolognese (Italian); Fried Egg and Tasty Tomato with beef (Chinese) and Tomato and Basil soup.

The project has a strong partnership with ‘Fare Share’, an organisation that works closely with large supermarkets to distribute surplus food. As a community partner, ng homes Food for Thought programme receives a supply of perfectly good ‘in date’ surplus food from Fare Share to use for cooking at the weekly community workshops and to distribute as food parcels to those in need.

Claire Alexander, Food for Thought Community Support Officersaid: “The aim of the Community ‘Cook and Go’ workshops is to show people how quick and relatively straight forward it is to cook healthy family meals for not that much money.”

As well as Fare Share the project also works with Spruce Carpets (Social Enterprise) and Emmaus. Furniture from the Commonwealth Games village is also distributed through Food for Thought in partnership with the Wheatley Group. Customers of ng homes undergoing hardship can ask their Housing Officer to make a referral for food or furniture support confidentially.

Taste of things to come with first Community Cook and Go Saracen House was the scene of a community cook-in with an international flavour recently organised by ng homes Food for Thought team.

The fun monthly events consist of cookery demonstrations and provide people with the opportunity to try out new skills and sign up for some free cookery workshops.

Around 40 people attended the first event which included dishes from Bangladesh, China, Italy, Africa, Mexico and Spain. Each month a basic ingredient is used in each dish to demonstrate its versatility then typical store cupboard essentials are added to make a variety of family meals. With places set and cooks at their stations the basic ingredient for the first event was a tin of chopped tomatoes and the chefs didn’t disappoint with their vision and culinary skills. The beautifully cooked dishes included Jollof Rice with fried chicken (African dish);Bengali Vegetable Pulau (Bangladesh) Chilli Chairperson of ng homes John Fury said: “The ‘cook and go’ is an opportunity for our customers to come along and learn how to make easy and tasty meals for good value.”

Big Breakfast Over the past few months a weekly community meal programme has been operating in Springburn and Possilpark and this also provided the opportunity for people to connect with other support agencies.

Participants will have the opportunity to watch and ask questions whilst the demonstrations take place. Participants can then either sit and enjoy their meal or take some away for later. Each participant also receives a bag containing all the ingredients used, along with recipe cards, to allow them to make the meals they have tried in the comfort of their own home.

From December a new service has started in the form of ng homes Big Breakfast. Kickstart your day the Healthy Way and get along to one of these weekly events:

There will also be a men’s cooking course starting the end of January and there are still some spaces left on this. It will run from Balgrayhill Community Centre for between 4-6 weeks.

Mondays 9:00 am-11:30am - Possilpark Parish Church, 124 Saracen Street, Possilpark G22 5AP Wednesdays 9:00am-11:30am Salvation Army Halls, 192 Fernbank Street, Springburn G22 6BD

Customers of ng homes who want more information on any of the Food for Thought activities should contact their housing officer or a member of Food for Thought on 0141 560 6000

ng homes emergency repairs during the holidays... Tenants can report any emergency repairs during the holidays by calling the emergency contact number at 0800 595 595. Problems with gas central heating should be reported direct to the Association’s gas maintenance contractor City Building on 0800 595 595 or City Technical Services on 0141 646 5091 TV aerial faults should be reported direct to City Building on 0800 595 595 Lighting faults in your close or multi-storey block can now be reported during working hours by calling 0141 560 6000 or Out of Hours 0800 595 595 Calls made to the office numbers will automatically divert to the emergency call centre. During periods of extreme cold weather there is a risk of pipes freezing and bursting. At such times it may be useful to follow these suggestions: • Keep heat circulating in all rooms • Report any dripping taps and pipes to City Building • Find your main stopcock in case of leaks. If you are unsure of how to locate this, please call the office for guidance. IF YOU HAVE A BURST PIPE PLEASE CARRY OUT THE FOLLOWING: Turn off water at stopcock or tap Switch off your immersion heater or boiler Turn on taps in sinks and baths Turn on as much heating as you can If water comes into contact with any electrical fittings turn off the electricity supply at the mains If your pipes do freeze or burst contact the emergency office number 0800 595 595

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) Saracen House, 139 Saracen Street, Possilpark, Glasgow, G22 5AZ Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005

GENN

Alive and Kicking at the Scottish Parliament Members of the Alive and Kicking concert party, the Red Road Young ‘Uns put on a special performance at the Scottish Parliament last week for invited guests and MSP’s. The performers, all over 60, sang and danced their way through their repertoire in the Burns Suite of the Parliament in an hour long performance. Local MSP Bob Doris who invited the group through to Edinburgh to perform thoroughly enjoyed the event tweeting: “It was great to welcome the Red Road Young ‘Uns, thankfully I didn’t burst into song! Another Glasgow MSP Drew Smith posted a short video and tweeted: “Fantastic evening at the Scottish Parliament with the Red Road Young Uns’.

John Fury, Chairperson of ng homes and a member of the concert party said: “It was a privilege to be invited through to the parliament to perform and we would like to thank Bob Doris MSP for the invitation and all our invited guests, including MSPs Paul Martin and Patricia Ferguson, for their support.” For over 25 Years the Alive and Kicking project in Red Road has provided vital services and support for disabled, elderly and lonely people living in the area. They deliver meals to people who, for whatever reason, cannot visit the project and they provide a range of activities including line dancing, keep fit and entertainment for members. At the centre you can take part in keep fit classes, get involved in the concert party or just meet up

and make new friends. Members have the option to go on holiday four times a year as well as day-trips. There’s a café which is a vital meeting place, an advice centre and the Red Road Young ‘Uns perform in a variety of shows. The project has in the past won the Lord Provost’s Award, the Evening Times Local Heroes award and most recently it won the Queen’s award for Volunteering. If you would like to join Alive and Kicking or make a donation to help this vital community facility please contact: Ann Marie Robertson or Eulalia Stewart on 0141 558 0329.

Energy saving tips this winter At this time of year, lights are kept on longer and the heating goes on just that little bit earlier than usual. A quick look out of the window and we can see that Winter is fast approaching! Ross Donaldson is the new Energy Efficiency Project Officer for ng2 and he has come up with some top energy saving tips to help keep your energy bills low and keep you safe and warm this festive season. Simple energy saving steps could save the average home as much as £130 per year. Here’s how: Switch off – appliances when they are not being used. This includes televisions and lights, especially in empty rooms. Avoid using standby (often, the little red light on televisions!) as that still uses energy. This could save you between £45 and £80 per year! Use energy saving bulbs – they use up to 80% less energy than older style ‘incandescent’ bulbs. They also last 10 times longer! (Energy Saving bulbs are supplied if you sign up for a Home Energy Check). Kitchen essentials – we all love a cuppa, especially when it’s cold outside! Filling the kettle only with the water that you need is another good way to save energy. Also, turn your washing machine down

ng2 400 Petershill Road, Springburn, Glasgow, G21 4AA Tel: 0141 630 4252

to 30°C and wash dishes using a filled basin, not running hot water. This combined could save you up to £43 a year! Exclude those draughts – draughts have no place in a warm and cosy home, so use draught excluders. Make sure your chairs and sofas are positioned away from draughts, such as from windows. Closing curtains at night also excludes draughts and keeps the heat in – 10-15% of heat is lost through windows alone! Adjust your heating controls – but knowing your heating controls is essential, whether that be gas heating or electric storage heaters. The optimum room temperature is 21°C, and reducing that by 1° could save you up to £75 per year. In any case, get to know your radiator controls and timing. Believe it or not, turning a radiator on full will not make a room heat up faster! And heating an empty room wastes money and energy. Don’t forget about those winter jumpers too – an extra layer makes all the difference! Keep heaters clear of furniture – having sofas or tables in front of heaters can serve to block out heat, making rooms...cold! Keeping heaters

Email: info@ng2works.com

clear of furniture means rooms are heated quickly and efficiently. It may also be the perfect chance to rearrange furniture to make room for the Christmas tree, finding a space away from the heater! Lastly...if there is anything you are unsure about, get in touch! We love to hear from you and we want to work with you to realise all of your potential home energy savings. We offer free home energy checks, which is a great way to understand where these savings can be made. With these handpicked tips, you’re sure to have a warm and cosy festive season. x If you would like to arrange a free home energy check, or just have a quick chat about energy use in your home, please get in touch with Ross via e-mail rdonaldson@ng2works.com or give him a call on 0141 630 4252

Website: www.ng2works.com

ng2 is a subsidiary of ng homes

ng in the community

Saracen House, 139 Saracen Street, Possilpark, Glasgow, G22 5AZ Tel 0141 336 1300 Fax 0141 560 6005

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Book a Glasgow Private Hire taxi, the safest and most convenient way to get around this Christmas

Glasgow Kelvin Hosts Cabinet Secretary Visit

Wishing our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Eastends Biggest & Best

NHS 24 Ready for Winter at Annual Review

PUBLIC Health Minister Maureen Watt, MSP, saw first hand how Scotland’s national unscheduled care and health information service is prepared to support thousands of patients across the country during the busy winter months. The busiest time of year over the festive break, Ms Watt, spoke with frontline staff in NHS 24’s Clydebank Contact Centre and saw how the seasonal initiative was supporting staff to deliver first class care for patients over the winter. A range of winter health information which is available on both NHS24.com and Scotland’s national health information service, NHS inform, websites where a winter zone and new winter self help guides have been created to give people high quality, trusted information about how to look after themselves and their families over the winter period. The Donor Response unit for the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, which was recently established. The unit receives calls to record new donor registrations and responds to inquiries from existing donors. Early in 2015 the service will also be used to contact existing donors if blood stocks are running low. The new Be Healthwise this Winter campaign, which is delivered by NHS 24 on behalf of NHSScotland. This comprehensive public communications campaign advises the public to make sure

they have over the counter remedies for seasonal illness, check prescriptions and GP surgery opening times over the festive holidays and to seek advice from pharmacies if needed. NHS 24 provides a valuable service to patients across Scotland when their GP surgery is closed. It allows people at any time of day, in any part of Scotland, to have access to health care advice when they need it. As they do every year, NHS 24 are now gearing up for the expected surge in demand over the festive and new year period, confident the additional resources put in place will meet this demand. It is also important though that the general public play their part in helping to support NHS services over winter – making sure they have ordered prescriptions in advance and checking when their GP surgery is close. If you do fall ill over the festive period, remember you can seek advice from NHS 24, an out-of-hours GP, or the local pharmacy if your condition is not life-threatening. Using these services, rather than turning up at A&E, will keep emergency departments free for those who really need them. The demonstration took place ahead of a series of meetings looking at NHS 24’s performance over the 2013-14 year, including a public session. The event was also webcast to staff across the service’s main centres around Scotland.

NHS 24 made sound progress in 2013/14 and the Annual Review provided an important opportunity to review performance and to identify key areas for further work and development. • People across Scotland can call NHS 24 using the free phone number 111. 111 gives people access to the help and advice they need when it can’t wait until their GP surgery reopens. NHS 24 works in close partnership with all Health Boards and the Scottish Ambulance Service to provide essential services to patients in need of urgent advice and care during the out-of-hours period when their GP surgery is closed. NHS 24 employs a range of specialist clinical staff including call handlers, nurse advisors, pharmacists, mental health advisors, dental nurses and special phoneline advisors within Breathing Space. NHS 24 provides access to trusted health information and support through a range of different services, including NHS inform, Care Information Scotland, and Smokeline. These services are available to the public via a range of different delivery channels, including the web, telephone and digital TV. The Scottish Centre for Telehealth and Telecare is part of NHS 24 and leads the way in delivering innovative new technology-based services to the people of Scotland.

GLASGOW Kelvin College Springburn Campus played host to the Cabinet Secretary for Fair Work, Skills and Training, Roseanna Cunningham MSP and Minister for Youth and Women’s Employment, Annabelle Ewing MSP earlier this week. During their visit to the College’s modern Engineering and Building Services facilities they had the opportunity to meet with a large group of school pupils from across local authority areas – Glasgow City, East Dunbartonshire and East Renfrewshire – who already attend college as part of their school timetable. These young people have the chance to learn a wide range of vocational and employability skills and experience college life for two half days per week and, for many, it is a step towards either a full-time college programme or employment on leaving school. The official party went on to meet some apprentices who had come through the College ‘Skills for Work’ and ‘Senior

Phase programme’ and were now employed by local companies while continuing their block release training at Glasgow Kelvin. During the visit, Ms Cunningham took the opportunity to launch the Scottish Government’s Youth Employment Strategy, which is a response to the Wood Commission’s ‘Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce’ report. The Strategy aims to cut youth unemployment by 40% in the next seven years and the government is making £6.5m available throughout Scotland to help improve vocational education. After meeting the enthusiastic young learners at the College, she said; “..the Scottish government’s commitment to supporting more young people towards high quality jobs remains unwavering. “The Youth Employment Strategy being published today outlines what we plan to do to equip our young people with the skills and knowledge they

need from the early years right through to the senior phase and into an apprenticeship, further and higher education, and a job.” Principal of Glasgow Kelvin College, Alan Sherry, welcomed the announcement. “The College already has a strong reputation in delivering vocational and employability skills to school-age learners, supporting them as they take key decisions on their future progression. Many of these students flourish at college and have gone on to complete apprenticeships, working with local companies and winning industry awards. The College also has strong links with industry which enhance their opportunities for employment. “We are delighted at the government’s plans to support development and expansion of initiatives such as these and we look forward to growing our partnerships, improving our strengths and helping create more opportunities for our young people.”

City Building recognised for commitment to supporting armed forces CITY Building has been recognised for its commitment to the armed forces community through The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme awards. The company was presented with the Silver Award at Edinburgh Castle at the beginning of December for our long track record of supporting reservists. City Building currently employs six members of the 71 Engineering Regiment; Stuart Vandal, Lawrence Johnson, Gordon Mullen, Jamie Nelson, Fraser Steele and Sam Clarke. Graham Paterson, said: “We

are delighted to have been presented with the Silver award for our support of the armed forces. We believe we are a supportive employer to all our team but we are very proud to support our employees in the armed forces. “The transferable skills and dedication they bring to the job helps demonstrate good working practices to the wider team. We also believe that we can help provide them with valuable skills and training to help them in the military roles and in their careers outside of service.” In addition to its support of

reservists City Building also took on four long-term unemployed veterans earlier this year which it had helped back into sustainable employment through its new state of the art window factory in Glasgow. Ex-servicemen, Jon Collins (AGE), Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, Barry Thomson, Royal Highland Fusiliers, Steven Nicol, Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and Richard Brown, Scots Guards all secured their roles at RSBi through the Glasgow Veterans Employment Programme.

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MAYHEM IN DENNISTOUN

THE stage is set, the lights come up and twelve girls come skipping sweetly from the wings. Clad in pigtails and bright colours, they bop their heads along to The Chordettes’ “Lollipop”; the epitome of innocence. This is, of course, just before the song breaks into a grimey trap version, throwing the girls into a frenzy of hip-hop moves, lifts and tricks and this is just what to expect from Glasgow’s ‘Mayhem Youth Dance Group’ MYDG is a small, non-profit dance school established in 2007 by Natalie Day. “I think it’s important that our students receive the same attention and academic effort that they would if at a professional school. Just because our girls aren’t trained in high-end studios or compete in expensive dancewear doesn’t mean the talent isn’t there.” Explains Natalie, a former competing champion herself. Just a simple community dance class held in the East End’s Alexandra Parade, MYDG prides itself on the welcoming and warm reception it

holds for children ranging from just 3 years to 16 years old. Natalie and the staff focus primarily on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the students - teaching an eclectic mix of jazz, hip hop, disco and modern as well as holding workshops featuring guest teachers specialising in cheerleading, musical theatre and stunts. Mayhem Youth rely solely on fundraising and donations, regularly seeing the students invite family and friends to join and help raise the fees required to take part in various competitions - A matter which is specifically important in the coming months as 2015 sees MYDG’s busiest competing period yet. “I’m definitely determined to show people just how talented this little bunch are and so I’m taking the early steps to finding Mayhem their first sponsor” states Natalie. It has only been at the tail end of this year the girls have ventured out into the competing world travelling across the city to showcase their talents. After a bitter defeat in their very first competition “That’s Showbiz!”; a nationwide search

for fresh talent, the girls seemed crushed. Nickayla, a group mentor commented: “They worked so hard for that first competition and walking away with nothing destroyed them - we always have to remind ourselves that they are just kids - but they threw themselves back into their routines and now they realise it’s not the winning that counts but coming back better and stronger!” Better and stronger they have become, returning from their last two competitions with many medals and trophies to pride themselves upon, resulting in impressed school friends now signing themselves up for the Mayhem Youth experience! It seems to be the raw East End attitude that sets these students apart from the rest - there is no pretence and what you see is what you get. Armed with hard work, determination and their residual offbeat style the girls are continuing to focus on their craft. Perhaps it is this natural and unprecedented charm that makes these girls determined to make 2015 the year of Mayhem!

GENN Cosgrove’s charity shops on Skirving Street urgently need stock. If you are doing a clear out, please keep them in mind!

THEY are looking for donations of quality clothes, furniture, electrical goods and bric-a-brac. They are also happy to collect from certain areas. To arrange a collection please call 0141 632 1441. The proceeds of all goods donated to Cosgrove’s shops remains within their Supported Employment Project. This project aims to provide people with learning disabilities the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience, training opportunities, national qualifications (SVQs and ASDAN Youth Awards) and ultimately paid employment. This helps to eradicate the social exclusion often experienced by people with learning disabilities whilst helping to build their confidence and self-esteem. The proceeds of all goods

donated to Cosgrove Care’s shops remains within our Supported Employment Project. This project aims to provide people with learning disabilities the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience, training opportunities, national qualifications (SVQs and ASDAN Youth Awards) and ultimately paid employment. This helps to eradicate the social exclusion often experienced by people with learning disabilities whilst helping to build their confidence and self-esteem. Cosgrove Care is a charity that specialises in providing personalised support and care services for children and adults who have learning disabilities, autistic spectrum disorders, and mental health problems living in and around Glasgow and East Renfrewshire.

HIGHEST DIVORCE RATE IN JANUARY JANUARY is the coldest month of the year, and, in reality, the Arctic vibe extends beyond the temperature. Did you know that January has the highest rate for divorce? As a matter of fact, it’s 50% higher than any other time of the year. The festive period is supposed to be a time of goodwill to all, however, it is fraught with so many unseen pressures and stress, sometimes it is impossible to play ‘happy families’ and as a result, sometimes these added pressures can become the breaking point for many thousands of families across the UK. The pressures of the holiday season can also affect those families that have been unhappy for some time, and in some cases, this time of year can signal the final straw and start the process of separation. Couples who have been considering separating will stay together for Christmas ‘because of the kids’ and then make a New Year’s resolution to get out of an unhappy relationship. Lawyers see divorce as a legal problem ,but for the individuals involved, it’s a catastrophic emotional event. Yes, they want the legal details dealt with and the financial settlement they’re entitled to, but they’re also frightened and upset. They need support.

Bilsland’s Bakery tower to be demolished

SCOTLAND’S DEBT PROBLEM FIGURES released by Accountancy in Bankruptcy, a specialist debt agency run by the Scottish government in Holyrood, highlight the considerable rise of those falling into debt. The court system reported almost 380,000 separate cases involving debtors in the 2013-14 fiscal year, a 20 per cent increase on the previous twelve months. Put into context, that is over 1000 cases every single day. Glasgow has its own problems but areas such as Lothian and Borders are among the worst hit, with a huge 49 per cent increase in cases regarding the non-payment of council tax. The report states that the increase in largely down to new regulations allowing councils to harness more power when it comes to recovering the monies that are owed to them.

Experts in council tax and debt resolution strategies, have released a statement following the release of the report. “The situation in Scotland really does highlight how serious the problem of debt is among people throughout the whole country. “With such a high number of cases being processed by the court system every single day, it is clear that the right amount of support and advice is not being provided to those who need it the most. Here at CTACIC we are experienced in helping people work towards suitable resolutions with their creditors – whether that is local councils or private debt companies. “We urge people who are feeling that their financial problems are snowballing to seek profes-

sional advice as soon as possible. Being summoned to court not only hinders the prospect of an amicable end but also causes a further incursion of charges. It’s important the right steps are taken to avoid this, and we believe here at CTACIC we are perfectly place to help.” Council Tax Advisors Community Interest Company (CIC) is a not-for-profit organisation offering free and independent advice and resolution services to those in council tax arrears or any other kind of debt. Formed in 2012 as a direct result of personal experiences with bailiffs, they are expertly placed to give advice and guidance on how best to deal with debt situations and offer long-term sustainable solutions including the organisation of repayment plans and professional mediation services.

BILSLAND’S Bakery went out of business in 1985 when the building was sold. The building has stood since 1881 when the four Bilsland brothers - James, William, Alexander and John - built the factory, William later became a councillor and Lord Provost of Glasgow from 1905-1908. His son Sir Alexander Steven

Bilsland was knighted in 1955. One of the site operation managers for Dem-Master, the demolition company contracted to do the work, said work to demolish the well-known Glasgow tower would begin about February 2015. The Hydepark Street tower will be the last building to be demolished, with Dem-Master

planning to clear the rest of the area before starting on the tallest standing building. It was announced in September 2011 that the building would be demolished to make way for the third phase of the Central Quay development. The building was latterly home to Soundhaus, a private music club.

GENN PRISTINE CLEAN

MOBILE CAR VALETING SERVICE From FULL SHOWROOM VALET TO WASH AND SHINE MINI VALETS

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AC/DC announce Glasgow show for 2015

VETERAN rockers to play at Hampden Park in Glasgow on Sunday 28 June, The AC/DC tour will be the first since founder Malcolm Young retired from the group earlier in 2014, owing to dementia. He has been replaced by his nephew Stevie Young, who previously played with the band on a 1988 US tour, which Malcolm missed to overcome his alcohol

dependency. Last month, lead guitarist Angus Young was reported as saying that Malcolm had to cope with the symptoms of dementia throughout the band’s two-year world tour to promote their last album, Black Ice. “I thought that at times it was not Malcolm with me,” Young said. “He would say at the time: ‘I have good days and I have bad

days.’ Later on, when he got diagnosed – he had brain shrinkage, and he got diagnosed in America and they gave him some medication to help him – I said: ‘Are you going to be fit for this? Because it’s going to be a hefty tour.’ And he said: ‘We’ll do it. We’ll do it.’ That was how he was. It was hard work for him. He was relearning a lot of those songs that he knew backwards; the ones we were playing that night he’d be relearning.He was his own driver. He himself had that thing, where you’ve just got to keep going.” “God knows what went through his mind in some nights when he wasn’t that well,” said singer Brian Johnson. That way, but your mind’s playing tricks. He was brilliant. He did brilliant.”

Closed 24th December 5pm Open 6th January 9 am

Looking forward to 2015 in our new office Happy New Year to all Tollcross Housing Association, 84 Braidfauld Street ,Tollcross, Glasgow, G32 8PJ Tel: 0141 763 1317

Fuse Youth Cafe in Shettleston receives £2000 from STV Appeal • Aerial Installations • Sky Solutions • Tv Wall Mounting • Commercial services • CCTV & Alarms Free site survey - 15% off for over 60s 58 Criffell Rd, Mount Vernon, GLASGOW G32 9JQ aoidigital.co.uk 0141 384 3925 / 07769 975828 email: info@aoidigital.co.uk

Closed 24th Dec 1pm Reopens 6th Jan Fuse would like to thank all their young people and partners and look forward to 2015

Fuse Youth Cafe Glasgow 1567-1573 Shettleston Road, G32 9AS Glasgow, United Kingdom

COMMUNITY project Fuse Youth Cafe in Shettleston has received £2000 from the STV Appeal 2014. Fuse Youth Café youth facility located in Shettleston, Fuse is the only youth facility in the Shettleston area offering a free drop in service for children and young people aged from nine to 25 years. They provide a safe and nurturing environment with highly trained youth workers who provide a wide range of interactive activities from Monday to Saturday after school and evenings. Fuse was set up to provide a safe place for young people where they are supported and encouraged to develop as individuals who can contribute positively to their communities. The STV Appeal is com-

mitted to making a difference in the lives of children and young people living in poverty in Scotland. Across the country, 220,000 children live in poverty and figures from the Campaign to End Child Poverty* show that in the city of Glasgow it’s actually 33.1% of children. Fuse Youth Cafe in Shettleston is one of the projects the STV Appeal is supporting in the city of Glasgow. Since launch in 2011, the STV Appeal has raised over £8.2 million with 297 big and small grants distributed to projects across all 32 local authority areas in Scotland, providing much needed support to over 37,000 children. The money raised is distributed to provide practical help like food and warm clothes; create opportunities

for training and employability; and enable social and emotional support for those who need it most. Gerry Baldwin, project manager at Fuse Youth Cafe, said: “Fuse Youth Cafe is both delighted and honoured to be chosen as an organisation to receive support from the STV Appeal. This money will help ensure that we continue to support the children and young people in the Shettleson community.” Rob Woodward, STV CEO and trustee of the STV Appeal, said: “The money donated to the STV Appeal remains in Scotland and will help bring about a positive change to the lives of vulnerable children and young people on our doorstep. With the help of the extraordinary fundraising efforts taking place in communities across the country we have raised an incredible £2.6m in 2014 allowing us to make grants to 297 projects. We are extremely grateful to everyone who supported this year’s Appeal.” The STV Appeal 2015 is now well underway with an exciting line-up of fundraising activities planned for the year ahead.

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APPEAL Local College Sweeps the Board at Apprenticeship Awards FOR RELATIVES OFFICERS from Police Scotland are seeking the assistance of the public and the media in trying to trace the relatives of a 74 year old man who died in the Gorbals area of Glasgow. Mr Hepburn was found dead within a friend’s house in Eglinton Court, Glasgow on Thursday 4 December 2014. There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. Enquiries have shown that Mr Hepburn was married three times and had three sons. He also lived in London for a number of years before moving to the Tollcross area in Glasgow some time ago. Unfortunately, enquiries carried out so far have failed to trace any relatives of Mr Hepburn. Anyone who has knowledge of anyone who knew Mr Hepburn, or who may know any family members is asked to contact officers at the Administration Department at London Road Police Office in Glasgow on telephone number 0141 532 4752.

COUNTERFEIT ELECTRICAL GOODS WARNING CLARE Adamson, MSP for Central Scotland, has tabled a Motion recognising the work of Electrical Safety First and its campaign to raise awareness of online sales of counterfeit electrical products. The Motion calls on the Government to assess and tackle the number of dangerous counterfeit electrical goods being traded online – which contribute to thousands of domestic fires, and can cause significant injuries, in Scotland each year. Research by Electrical Safety First has found that sales of illegal, fake goods on social media are a growing trend and have increased by almost 15% in the last year – with seizures of fake mobile phones rising by over 50%. “We are delighted that Clare Adamson has raised this issue in Holyrood and thank her for her commendation of Electrical Safety First and its work”, says Phil Buckle, Director-General of Electrical Safety First. “There is a significant issue with counterfeit electrical products which becomes particularly pressing during the Christmas period, when people are looking for a bargain. Unlike fake designer clothes or pirate DVDs, counterfeit electrical products are often substandard and contain faulty parts, which can cause serious damage to both people and property.”

GLASGOW Kelvin College students have, once again, snatched the top prizes at the recent Scottish Apprentice National Training Award Competition (Heating, Ventilation and Pipe Fitting), highlighting the quality of learning and teaching which is delivered by the talented staff and committed employers. Six 3rd and 4th year apprentices from Heating & Venting, Welding, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning (REFAC) and Service & Maintenance, claimed the winner and runner-up spots and received their prizes at a smart ceremony at the end of November. The College runs a broad and intensive range of programmes for apprentices in Building Services Engineering and works in partnership with employers and BEST, the institutional body which mediates training in this sector. This ensures that the future workforce will have relevant skills for working in sustainable industries. James Dunbar, 3rd year apprentice with William Whitfield Ltd and winner of the Service & Maintenance Award, said, “I was really surprised to win the award and I’m delighted. I have to thank my employers and my tutors for all their support – I couldn’t have done it without them and I’m over the moon.”

College Principal, Alan Sherry, said, “Once again, this is a remarkable achievement for our young apprentices and a real reflection of the talents and commitment that they bring to the workplace. We have to thank our partners in the delivery of these skills - the employers and BEST, the sector skills agency. Their confidence in us is re-

inforced through awards such as these. “We’re extremely proud of our apprentices’ achievements and, of course, the skills of our teaching staff who deliver such a high quality learning experience to our students. Congratulations go to all concerned!” The proud students and their tutors are pictured here with their certificates; (l to r)

Daryl Kennedy (Bouygues Energy & Services) – Runner Up REFAC Apprentice of the Year Scotland, Gary Bickerton (Arthur McKay Building Services) – Winner Pipe Fitter Apprentice of the Year Scotland, Daniel Hart (Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil Ltd) – Runner Up Service & Maintenance Apprentice of the Year Scotland, Bryan Adams, Tommy Nicol, George Blacker & Liam Noble

– GKC lecturers, James Dunbar (William Whitfield Limited) – Winner Service & Maintenance Apprentice of the Year Scotland, Jordan Gilmour (James Frew Ltd) – Winner Pipefitter/ Welder Apprentice of the Year Scotland and Scottish Craft Apprentice of the Year Overall Winner, Josh McInnes (Blue Distribution Ltd) – Winner REFAC Apprentice of the Year Scotland.

CHARITY NIGHT AT GESH IN GARTHAMLOCK KEVIN Walker was raised in Garthamlock and left there over 30 years ago when his family moved to Irvine. 3 years ago he set up a group page on facebook ‘Garthamlock and Proud’, this page has grown and now has over 800 members from all over the world who originated from Garthamlock. Talk of a reunion has always been a conversation within the group. Kevin is currently fighting lung/lymph node cancer and has been subjected to gruelling chemo and radiotherapy over the last few months. There are currently 4 other members of the group fighting cancer in one form or another, one of which is currently in a hospice. A Garthamlock and Proud reunion was arranged and was held on Thursday 11th December at the GESH in Garthamlock, and at Kevins request it was also be a fundraiser for the Beatson Cancer Charity, who have taken such great care of Kevin and others throughout. On the night there were donations from this Community and beyond. In a place where we have a foodbank, this Community has really come up trumps in the name of charity.

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ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF HYDRO

SCOTLAND’S major new music venue has generated economic spin-offs worth more than £130million to its host city after its first full year of operation, its owners claim Since opening in late 2013, the Hydro Arena has hosted 93 events and 165 performances, from the Commonwealth games to Beyonce, Prince, Michael Buble, Fleetwood Mac, the MTV Awards and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year. Other popular acts included Still Game’s Jack and Victor in a live show. Even excluding the Glasgow 2014 events, an estimated 1.4 million visitors have passed through the doors of the £125 million since it opened to the public. The New Year will see the likes of One Direction, Tay-

lor Swift, Elton John, U2 and Take That. The 12,000-seater arena on the banks of the Clyde was launched as far back as 2006, with a view to freeing up the SECC for other events and providing Glasgow, one of the main destinations for bands on the tour circuit, with a purpose-built venue. Designed by acclaimed architect Norman Foster’s firm it ran into funding difficulties, conflicts with developers, political fallouts and even a fire before opening with a string of concerts by Rod Stewart. Since then, it has been cemented its place as one of Europe’s leading venues. One major spin-off has been its impact on the Finnieston area, between the city centre and the west end. Although already blossom-

ing as Glasgow’s ‘Shoreditch’, a new hive of trendy bars, cafes and restaurants, the Hydro has provided a constant stream of custom and confirmed its status. When combined with the SECC it is estimated the venues delivered £378m of economic value to Glasgow last year, from hotel stays, money poured into the hospitality industry and other spend associated with an influx of visitors to the city. The SECC’s box office turnover also increased by 82% largely due to the demand for live entertainment hosted in the new venue. Already we have over 90 performances confirmed for 2015 including rock giants U2, who have chosen to play just two UK venues which is a great accolade.

Wishing all our residents a Happy New Year Our office will close at 12 noon on Wednesday 24 December 2014 and will re-open on Monday 5 January 2015. Please note a telephone answering service will be available during 29 & 30 December during office hours and until 12 noon on 31 December.

Our call out service, for emergencies only, is available 24 hours per day on 0141-551-8131

53 Ballindalloch Drive Glasgow G31 3DQ Call 0141 551 8131 www.milnbank.org.uk

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The Royston Strategy Group was formed in 2014 by local organisations and elected Councillors and MSP’s. At last, there is an opportunity to complete the regeneration of Royston. Working together we can make sure that the interests of the whole of the Royston community are paramount and that all decisions are open and transparent. No more deals behind closed doors that deprive the community of their land and property! We look forward to 2015 with a renewed drive and purpose. Let Royston Flourish! Blochairn Housing Association, 1 Blochairn Road, Glasgow G21 2E 0141 553 1601

Royston Dental Practice The gentle dentists

Tel: 0141-552 8898

Unit W1, Rosemount Workspace 141 Charles Street, Glasgow G21 2QA

It’s a great pleasure to have been a tenant of Rosemount Workspace Ltd for the past 14 years. I wish Maureen and her team, and all the directors every success in the future.

Kevin Murray Associates is an award-winning niche consultancy operating across the spectrum of planning, regeneration, urban design and community consultation.

Our services include: • Spatial planning • Urban design • Regeneration

• Consultation & engagement • Futures and scenario planning • Training and events

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ROSEMOUNT DEVELOPMENT TRUST Fergus House 127 Fergus Drive Glasgow G20 6BY Tel: 0141 945 3651 Email: info@kevinmurrayassociates.com

GENN Glasgow East and North News

Your voice in the community

WE ARE EXCITED AND LOOK FORWARD TO BEING PART OF THE STRATEGY AND WILL BE REPORTING THE SUCCESSES

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18 COMMENT ON DEEP STATE IN INDYREF "BRITAIN’S top civil servant and the Queen’s private secretary colluded to craft a rare public intervention by the monarch in the last days of Scotland’s independence referendum, according to the Guardian newspaper. Described by Whitehall sources as the two figures at the heart of Britain’s “deep state”, the two men started discussing getting the Queen to intervene after polls showed growing support for the Yes campaign. The discussions between Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, and Sir Christopher Geidt for the palace, led the Queen to issue an appeal to the people of Scotland four days before the referendum in September to “think very carefully” before casting their vote. In a carefully planned PR exercise, speaking after Sunday service outside Crathie Kirk near her Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire, the Queen told a member of the public: “Well, I hope people will think very carefully about the future.” This was immediately relayed to media who reported it widely. She spoke out after the British government went into ‘meltdown’ once polls began to show a lead for Yes. Prime Minister David Cameron visited the Queen at her official residence at Balmoral on the day that a Sunday Times/YouGov poll gave Yes its first lead by 51% 49%. It was not the first time that the Queen had intervened in matters relating to Scotland’s self-governance. In an address to the UK parliament in 1977 when calls for a devolved Scottish parliament were growing, she told the house: “I cannot forget that I was crowned Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Perhaps this jubilee is a time to remind ourselves of the benefits which union has conferred, at home and in our international dealings, on the inhabitants of all parts of this United Kingdom.” As an unelected head of state, the Queen is supposed to stay strictly neutral on political matters. The incident is not the first to raise questions over the royal family’s role in politics. Prince Charles has been at the centre of an ongoing court battle over the Guardian’s attempts to obtain 27 letters he wrote to ministers between 2004 and 2005. Publication of the letters dubbed the ‘black spider memos’ because of the prince’s handwriting - was forbidden by a judge on the grounds that it could compromise his future role as king. The contents of the correspondence to political figures remains unknown".

GENN WHEATLEY GROUP TO HELP OLDER TENANTS DURING FESTIVE PERIOD THOUSANDS of older tenants are being helped to stay warm and cosy this winter. Tenants over 60 or disabled are receiving free checks to get their home geared up for the freezing temperatures. More than 2,400 ‘WinterReady’ inspections have been carried out so far for tenants of GHA, Cube, Loretto Housing and West Lothian Housing Partnership, which are part of Wheatley Group. A plumber visits the tenant and checks the boiler, pipes and taps and also bleeds the radiators. Tenants are shown how to set their heating, turn off the water and where to find their stop cock. Tenants are also offered advice on extra services offered by Wheatley Group to keep fuel bills low and stay safe over the Christmas period. Frank McClung, 79, from Baillieston in Glasgow, signed up for the home check. The GHA tenant said: “I don’t want anything to go wrong over the winter. It’s better to be prepared. “The check gives you peace of mind. I know when I come home that my heating will be on and it will be nice and cosy. I’d definitely recommend it to others. I had a burst pipe several years ago so I know what can happen.”

Olga Clayton, Wheatley Group Director of Housing and Care, added: “We want to do everything we can to help some of our most vulnerable tenants during the winter months. “The checks, winter tips and

services provide peace of mind as tenants know their home is ready for the freezing winter temperatures.” Tenants can also book free appointments for other services, including: • the Handyperson Service

which provides help with small jobs round the home for tenants who are over 60 or disabled and • a free Home Fire Safety visit. A Fire Safety Officer will carry out a safety check and fit a smoke detector for tenants who don’t have one

• the Fuel Advice Service, which helps tenants on to the cheapest energy tariffs •Welfare Benefit Advisors who can provide free advice and make sure tenants claim all of the benefits they are entitled to.

TRUSTY PAWS IN GLASGOW

THE relationship between a homeless person and their dog can be an exceptionally close one but if you are on the streets, looking after your pet can also be challenging. In an effort to help with that, a group of fourth-year vet students from Glasgow University has set up a clinic service to provide free vaccinations, micro-chipping, clothing, bedding and more. Trusty Paws clinic. It was set up this year by Glasgow University vet students. “We provide basic preventative health care,” says 22 year-old Ruby Shorrock, who came up with idea after seeing a similar scheme in England. They launched in March and over the summer collected supplies and public donations. In October they held their first clinic. They provide things such as vaccinations, flea and worming treatment, micro chips and general clinical exams, as well as other things including food and collars to dog owners who are homeless. “They really care for their dogs even more than they care for themselves,” says Ms Shorrock. “Often the dogs get fed before their owners get fed. So just seeing that dedication and passion from someone who’s in that predicament is inspiring.” “The aim is to help these peo-

ple off the streets, so if they’re not worrying about feeding their dog or getting care for their dog, they can look after themselves.” The clinics have been held at the advice and information hub of the Glasgow Simon Community. The organisation, which aims to combat the causes and effects of homelessness, is partnering in the Trusty Paws project. It has meant that, as well as the dogs being helped, the people too are in a place where they can get the support they need “Homelessness is an extremely isolating, lonely and frightening experience,” says Lorraine McGrath, chief executive at the Glasgow Simon Community. In such a situation a dog can become really important. She says: “Basically they become the one constant, the one positive relationship in their lives. “They give a sense of purpose, a sense of meaning to each day. It’s someone for them to care for and to have responsibility for.” She says dogs can make finding accommodation more difficult. Their services do allow them, but others are not able to take them. Her organisation has dealt with people who have refused offers of somewhere to stay because they have not been able to take their dog with them.

Lochfield Park Housing Association Limited is a not for profit Registered Social Landlord operating in the Lochend area of Easterhouse. The Housing Association is a Registered Scottish Charity and has been at the forefront of regeneration in the Lochend area since its inception in 1993. Our main aim is to: “Contribute to sustaining the local community of Lochend and promote social inclusion”. We also aim to contribute to the regeneration of Easterhouse through the provision of well managed, high quality housing and housing services within the means of people in housing need. Lochfield Park provides houses for single people, couples, families, older people and people with special needs. In recent years we have also provided Low Cost Home Ownership for those people wanting to get a start on the home ownership ladder.

WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY NEW YEAR

37 Drumlanrig Ave, Glasgow, G34 0JF

Phone: 0141 771 2228

GENN

FOODBANK FOOD DRIVE

DONORS have saved New Year for hungry families by flooding foodbank with festive grub. Charity workers feared they’d run out of stock this week, leaving the poor to go without. Now they have enough meals to see them into February. Donations from well-wishers, supermarkets, schools, farmers, businesses and market traders have ensured the foodbank in Glasgow can keep on feeding hard-up families.

Normally, we are working from one week to the next, with barely enough food to meet demand. But it seems everyone is embracing the spirit of Christmas and going the extra mile to help those less fortunate over New Year. They’ve had people travelling from every corner of Scotland to donate. They’ve seen everything from farmers up north driving down to donate bags of Maris Piper potatoes to school-kids giving up selection boxes.

They have so much food now and are struggling to fit it all into the shop. Christmas and New Year is the busiest time of year and without donations, food banks wouldn’t exist. They are seeing more people coming through the doors following the festive appeal. Thanks to all these donations, they are able to give people a New Year dinner. It’s not a lot but a tin of boiled ham, potatoes, veg and a small pudding goes a long way when you have nothing.

INTERNATIONAL CYCLING SERIES AT VELODROME SIR Chris Hoy Velodrome for an action-packed day as the Revolution series comes to Scotland! Over the past 12 years, Revolution Series has grown into the most successful elite track cycling league in the world. Revolution Series has two simple aims: to provide a competitive environment in which Britain’s best track cyclists can develop their talent, and to provide fans with thrilling, world-class track cycling entertainment. Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish MBE, Victoria Pendleton CBE, Dutch legend Marianne Vos and multiple world-record holder François Pervis are just some of the world-famous names who’ve appeared at Revolution Series. There are three main elements: the Elite Championship, Future Stars and UCI-sanctioned racing. The Revolution Series Elite Championship is the centrepiece. Pro teams like Team Sky and Rapha Condor JLT

compete in five races at each round. Consistency of performance and teamwork are the keys to success with points collected in all races: 10 points for first place, nine for second place, down to one for 10th place. Pro teams consist of two riders at each event, drawn from a larger professional team - it won’t be the same two riders at every round. Past winners of the Future Stars competition include Steven Burke and Pete Kennaugh,

both of whom won team pursuit Gold at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Revolution Series attracts capacity crowds across the season and is increasing its reach across the UK. A third visit to the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow comes in January, with other rounds at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester and Lee Valley VeloPark in London. A shuttle bus service will be provided to and from the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.

GARTCOSH CONNECTION IN MASSIVE COCAINE BUST TWO Dutch men who provided a specialist drug retrieval service for organised crime groups have been jailed. Henri van Doesburg, aged 68, from Aalsmeer, masterminded a plan to use a high-speed underwater scooter to recover 108 kilos of cocaine hidden in the rudder area of the Colombian cargo ship Cape Maria anchored near to Hunterston in the Firth of Clyde. His plan was stopped by a multi-agency operation earlier this year. National Crime Agency investigators arrested Van Doesburg’s son Roderick, aged 23, from Aalsmeer, his grandson Darryl-Jay, aged 22, from Aalsmeer, and Arnold van Milt, aged 49, from Amsterdam, at a hotel in Seamill on the evening of 9 May. Investigators seized the underwater scooter, a rigid hulled inflatable boat with a powerful engine, wetsuits and diving equipment. A specialist Border Force deep rummage team and divers from Police Scotland’s Marine Policing Unit had recovered the cocaine earlier in the day following an extensive search of the ship. They also found pieces of cut rope in the rudder area indicating the hide had been used before. Van Doesburg, who was in constant contact with Van Milt using an encrypted BlackBerry, was tracking the ship on his home computer. He was apprehended by the Rotterdam Hit and Run Cargo Team the following day, and was later extradited to the UK to face

trial. Dutch officers had observed meetings between Van Doesburg and two English men at a café in Amsterdam on 8 May. They heard references to “diving” and “got 120”. They recovered sheets of notepaper showing calculations and telephone numbers. Van Doesburg and Van Milt were found guilty of conspiracy to import cocaine following a four-week trial at Leeds Crown Court. They were sentenced to 20 and 16 years respectively. The jury found Van Doesburg’s son Roderick and grandson Darryl-Jay not guilty. David Norris, NCA Branch Commander, said: “The underwater scooter was like something out of a Bond movie. These criminals were going to use it to dive beneath the ship under the cover of darkness and recover the cocaine worth tens of millions of pounds. “Van Doesburg and Van Milt provide a specialist drug retrieval service for organised crime groups, and we have linked them to other ships that have been intercepted carrying cocaine. “Van Milt posed as a tourist while in Scotland and bought camping equipment as part of the cover story. “By preventing them providing more of their services, the NCA and its partners have disrupted criminal activity beyond this one operation. There will be some very frustrated criminals out there today.” Sir Charles Montgomery, Director General of Border Force, said: “This was an excellent seizure

that stopped millions of pounds worth of harmful drugs making their way onto the streets of this country. “I would like to pay tribute to all the Border Force officers that were involved but in particular to our specialist officers from the National Deep Rummage Team. “This joint operation is an example of the coordinated action being taken to protect our border and target the organised groups behind drug and people trafficking.” Detective Chief Superintendent John Cuddihy, head of Police Scotland’s Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit, said: “This is a superb result for all the agencies involved in this operation. This successful operation is a shining example of the strong partnerships that Police Scotland have with the National Crime Agency and others nationally and internationally. “The new Scottish Crime Campus in Gartcosh, where we are co-located with the National Crime Agency, provided a significant number of specialist officers and resources to assist with the operation, and we are more than happy to co-operate with other law enforcement agencies to successfully tackle and disrupt serious and organised crime at all levels.” Analysis of computers seized at Van Doesburg’s home connected him to the Cape Maria. There were 84 references to the ship in the memory of a laptop, 1,844 references to Hunterston and 208 to the ship’s home port Santa Marta.

Further enquiries highlighted the Cape Maria made previous trips to the United Kingdom in January and March. On the second of those occasions all four men based themselves in north Lincolnshire close to where the ship was moored near to the port of Immingham. The computers also contained references to two other ships – the Indian Friendship and the Florentina. There were 2,078 mentions of the Indian Friendship alone. The Rotterdam HARC Team found 148 kilos of cocaine concealed in the rudder area of the Indian Friendship while it was in Rotterdam on 21 April. The ship continued its on journey to the port of Hull, anchoring off the port on 25 April. On 1 May it moved a short distance down the Humber to Immingham and

stayed there until 4 May. NCA investigators viewed hours and hours of CCTV footage to evidence that the four men had travelled to the UK and established themselves in Cleethorpes – less than ten miles away from Immingham. Van Doesburg was unaware the cocaine had already been found on the Indian Friendship. Van Doesburg and Van Milt arrived on 29 April on the Rotterdam to Hull ferry and were in a vehicle that was towing the boat. They visited a B&Q in Grimsby to buy tools before booking into a hotel in Cleethorpes. On 1 May they picked up Roderick and Darryl-Jay from Leeds Bradford Airport. RNLI lifeboat officers saw some of the men regularly going out to sea in their boat.

After dropping Van Doesburg at Leeds Bradford Airport on 5 May, the others headed for Scotland and stayed in hotels in the Largs area. CCTV showed them visiting a Halfords store in Greenock to buy camping equipment and C&C Marine Services in Largs to enquire about hiring diving equipment. Van Doesburg and Van Milt were also linked to cocaine found on the Florentina ship on 22 March. The HARC team found 123 kilos of cocaine in the control room. Officers spotted them near to a rubber dinghy on a trailer that was stuck in the sand. During the investigation the NCA has also received support from the CPS Organised Crime Division, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, and West Yorkshire Police.

Celebrating our 25th anniversary T: 0141 771 9151 info@fare-scotland.org.uk

Bannatyne House, 31 Drumlanrig Avenue, Easterhouse, Glasgow G34 0JF

FACTS ABOUT JANUARY

1. The Latin name for this month, Ianuarius, comes from the word for door, ‘ianua’ as it is seen as the door to a new year. 2. Originally the Roman calendar ran only from March to December. Names for January and February were added later. 3. The new year in Britain officially began in January only after the calendar reform of 1752. Before that, it was celebrated on March 25.

4. The Anglo-Saxon for January was Wulf Monath (wolf month) or Aefterra Giola (after Yule). 5. Much Ado About Nothing and A Winter’s Tale are the only Shakespeare plays that mention January. 6. According to the census information, January is the 3,265th most popular girl’s name in the United States. 7. Apart from leap years,

FACTS ABOUT FEBRUARY

January always begins on 1. February was named afthe same day as October. ter the ancient Roman purification ritual ‘Februa’. 8. January Suchodolski was a Polish painter and 2. Until 713BC, the Romans Army officer. He was born had no names for January in September. and February, on the grounds that the winter months did not 9. January is the only deserve them. month when the North Pole is on average colder than 3. Until Julius Caesar’s changthe South Pole. es in 45BC, February was the only month with an even num10. The Polish for January ber of days. is Stycznia, from a word for joining: it joins the old year 4. In Old English, February to the new. was called ‘Solmonath’ (mud month) or ‘Kalemonath’ (cab-

FACTS ABOUT MARCH

1. March is named after Mars, the Roman god of war. This is probably because the Roman battle season began in spring. 2. In Old English, March was called Hlyda, or Lide, meaning ‘loud’ referring to the loud March winds.

tradition that he died on Tuesday, March 1, 589.

5. The actor Fredric March won two Best Actor Oscars, in 1932 and 1946.

3. “March is the month of expectation, The things we do not know.” (Emily Dickinson, 1830-86)

6. He changed his name from Frederick Bickel in a 1924 New Year’s greeting: “This is 1924, I won’t be Bickel any more; Fredric March is now my name, Wishing everyone the same, Happy New Year.”

4. St David’s Day is celebrated on March 1 after a

7. The town of March in Cambridgeshire is so

2. In any given year, no month ever begins or ends on the same day of the week as May does. 3. The priests of Vulcan in Ancient Rome used to sacrifice a pregnant sow on the first of May. 4. In 1644 maypoles were banned in England as a ‘heathenish vanity’. Local officials who defiantly put them up

could be fined five shillings a week. 5. In 1661, a maypole 123ft tall was put up in the Strand, London for the return of Charles II. Isaac Newton later used it as a support for his telescope. 6. S”Let no man boast himself that he has got through the perils of winter till at least the seventh of May.” (Anthony Trollope). 7. According to the roman poet Ovid: “Bad girls wed in

5. ‘February’ is an anagram of ‘bare fury’ (if you are feeling angry) or ‘bury fear’ (if you are brave). 6. February is the only month that can pass without a full moon. This last happened in 1999 and will next happen in 2018. 7. Much Ado About Nothing is Shakespeare’s only play naming February: “You have such a February face, So full of frost, of storm and cloudiness.”

use of the phrase April Fool dates back to 1693.

8. The March March 2. According to a remarch is an annual walk this cent survey, 62 per cent month to March and back of people named April by Cambridge students. believe April is a good name for a baby. 9. In the UK, March is National Bed Month, run by 3. April was the 233rd The Sleep Council (www. most popular name givsleepcouncil.org.uk). en to a girl baby in the UK in 2012, just ahead 10. In the US, March 1 is of Josephine but behind National Pig Day. It is also Natalie. Share A Smile Day and Peanut Butter Lover’s Day. 4. The earliest known

6. The term April gentleman in English used to refer to a newly-married man (by implication, therefore, a fool).

1. On June 1, 1792, the state of Kentucky, 8. According to old Cornish also known as the Bluesuperstition, it is unlucky to buy grass state, became the a broom during the month of 15th state of the United May. States. 9. No US president has ever died during the month of May. Harry S Truman and John F Kennedy are the only ones born in May.

2. On June 1, 1796, Tennessee, also known as The Volunteer State became the 16th state of the United States.

10. In response to May 1 being Labour Day, the first World Tramps Congress in Argentina in 1966 named May 2 as the International Day of Idleness.

3. On June George C. the Secretary described the Plan.

53 Ballindalloch Drive Glasgow G31 3DQ Call 0141 551 8131 www.milnbank.org.uk

9. In the French Republican calendar introduced in 1793, the month from about January 21 to February 19 was called ‘Pluviose’ meaning ‘rainy’. 10. The US White Pages phone directory lists 57 people with the surname February. Of all months, only September (also 57) has so few.

5. In the US, April is national poetry month. From 1987-1996 it was also International Guitar Month.

7. “April is the cruellest month...” (opening line to TS Eliot’s The Waste Land).

8. In Belgium, France and Italy, there is an April Fool tradition of playing pranks on people by tacking paper fish on their backs. 9. For that reason, the French and Belgians call April Fool’s Day Poisson d’Avril (April fish). 10. “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen,” (opening line of George Orwell’s 1984).

FACTS ABOUT JUNE

May.”

WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO 2015, OUR 40TH YEAR. JOIN US FOR A YEAR OF ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS AS WE HOLD A SERIES OF EVENTS TO MARK THIS REMARKABLE BIRTHDAY.

8. Because of calendar change, Sweden and Finland had 30 days in February in 1712.

FACTS ABOUT APRIL

named because it was 1. In Old English the once an island surrounded month of April was called by marshes. Eastermonad.

FACTS ABOUT MAY 1. The month May was named for Maia, the Greek goddess of fertility.

bage month).

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5, 1947, Marshall, of State, Marshall

4. On June 14, 1777, the flag of the United States was adopted by the Continental Congress. 5. June 14, 1900 - Hawaii was organized as a territory 6. On June 15, 1215, the Magna Carta was granted by King John. 7. On June 15, 1775, George Washington was appointed the commander in chief of

the Continental Army. 8. On June 15, 1836, Arkansas also known as the Natural State, became the 25th state of the United States. 9. Finland’s Flag Day is celebrated on the Saturday closest to June 24. 10. On June 18, 1812, the United States declared war on Great Britain.

GENN

FACTS ABOUT JULY

1. The Latin name for this month, Ianuarius, comes from the word for door, ‘ianua’ as it is seen as the door to a new year.

25. 4. The Anglo-Saxon for January was Wulf Monath (wolf month) or Aefterra Giola (after Yule).

2. Originally the Roman calendar ran only from March to December. Names for January and February were added later.

5. Much Ado About Nothing and A Winter’s Tale are the only Shakespeare plays that mention January.

3. The new year in Britain officially began in January only after the calendar reform of 1752. Before that, it was celebrated on March

6. According to the census information, January is the 3,265th most popular girl’s name in the United States.

7. Apart from leap years, January always begins on the same day as October. 8. January Suchodolski was a Polish painter and Army officer. He was born in September. 9. January is the only month when the North Pole is on average colder than the South Pole. 10. The Polish for January is Stycznia, from a word for joining: it joins the old year to the new

FACTS ABOUT SEPTEMBER

1. September is the only month with the same number of letters in its name in English as the number of the month. 2. The Anglo-Saxons called September ‘Gerst monath’, meaning ‘barley month’.

3. In any year, no other month ends on the same day as September. 4. The only film with ‘September’ in its title to win an Oscar was One Day

In September about the murder of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Olympics. 5. In 1752 September had only 19 days in the UK as we moved from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar. 6. Shakespeare did not mention the month of September in any of his plays. 7. Statistics show September is the only month when share prices are likelier to fall than rise.

2. The Dutch called it ‘slachtmaand’ (slaughter month); in Welsh it is ‘Tachwedd’, also meaning ‘slaughter’ referring to the killing of animals. 3. The name ‘November’ comes from the Latin for nine (novem), as it was the ninth month of the Roman calendar.

4. November is the only month used to represent a letter in the phonetic alphabet. 5. There is no mention of the month of November in any of Shakespeare’s plays or sonnets. 6. November 2 is the only date on which two US presidents were born: Warren Harding (born 1865) and James Polk (1795). 7. “If there’s ice in Novem-

2. Until 8BC, the Romans called August ‘Sextilis’ as it was the sixth month of their year. 3. The Anglo-Saxons called August by the name Weod-monath (weed month) as it is the month when weeds grow most rapidly. 4. ‘August’ is the only name of a month that features

among the top 1,000 men’s names. April, Maya and June are all in the women’s top 1,000. 5. Twenty-two per cent of Norwegians named August were born in August.

6. Men are banned from knitting on Jersey during the fishing season from August to September. 7. Henry VI Part 1 and The Tempest are the only Shakespeare plays that mention August.

8. The birthstone in August is the peridot or sardonyx; the flower is the gladiolus or poppy. 9. August is the only month this year that begins on a Thursday. In a leap year, February begins on the same day of the week as August. 10. “In August, choler and melancholy much increase from whence proceeds long-lasting fevers and agues not easily cured.” (R Saunders, 1679)

FACTS ABOUT OCTOBER

1. The Anglo-Saxons 8. Men are banned from called October Winterfylknitting on the island of in leth, meaning the ‘fullness’ Jersey during the fishing of winter. season months of August and September. 2. The Welsh for October is 9. “My favourite poem is the one that starts ‘Thirty days hath September’ because it actually tell you something” (Groucho Marx).

Hydref (originally Hyddfref), a word signifying the lowing of cattle.

3. The ‘October Revolution’ in Russia in 1917 took place in November, but at the time Russians had not 10. The only UK Prime yet changed from the JuMinister to die in Septem- lian calendar. ber was the Duke of Wellington in 1852. 4. The Hunt For Red Oc-

FACTS ABOUT NOVEMBER

1. In Old English November was ‘Windmonath’ (wind month) or ‘Blotmonath’ (blood or sacrifice month).

FACTS ABOUT AUGUST

1. August is named after Augustus, first Emperor of Rome who chose it as it was the month of his greatest triumphs. He died in August AD14.

tober, with Sean Connery, is the only film with ‘October’ in its title ever to win an Oscar (for best sound editing).

5. More US presidents have been born in October than in any other month. 6. October in the UK is the Awareness Month for Lupus, breast cancer, national cyber security and domestic violence. 7. It is also National Cholesterol Month, Black History Month, International Walk

8. In the US, October is National Pizza Month, Popcorn Month, Pork Month and Sausage Month. 9. October is not mentioned in any Shakespeare play or sonnet. 10. “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers,” (Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne Of Green Gables).

FACTS ABOUT DECEMBER

ber to bear a duck, There’ll be nothing after but sludge and muck,” (Old weather saying).

1. There are fewer daylight hours in December in the northern hemisphere than in any other month.

are breathalysed during December than in any month. It is also the worst month for road deaths.

8. November has been designated National Novel Writing Month and National Blog Posting Month.

2. According to a 2011 survey, more dentists have birthdays in December than in any other month.

5. “God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December.” (JM Barrie).

9. The birthstone for November is the topaz. The flower is the chrysanthemum.

3. To counter the “melancholy and phlegm” brought on by December, Richard Saunders, writing in 1679, recommended eating cabbage, onion and roasted apples or pears after meat. 4. In the UK more drivers

10. November is National Pomegranate Month in the USA.

to School Month and International School Library Month.

6. It is estimated that £11billion will be withdrawn from ATMs in the UK this month. We withdraw more money in December than any other month. 7. According to a recent survey, December is the

month when couples argue the most. 8. The stock market tends to do better in December than any other month. This has been put down to something called the ‘Santa rally’. 9. More people suffer fatal falls in December in the UK than any other month. 10. “Men are April when they woo, December when they wed,” (Shakespeare, As You Like It).

We are a well established firm of Chartered Accountants based in Glasgow since 1991; providing a professional & friendly accountancy service. We provide the following Services:• Audits for all sizes of Limited Companies and Chari es • Accounts Prepara on for Limited Companies • Accounts Prepara on for Sole Traders & Partnerships • Taxa on work for individuals • Company Forma ons

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Curle & Co.Wish WishAll AllOur OurCustomers Customersa aProsperous ProsperousNew NewYear Yearand and we welook lookforward forwardtotoworking workingwith withyou youall allin in 2015 2015. Curle & Co.

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A ‘Frozen’ Christmas for local author TIPS FOR KEEPING

GLASGOW author Karen Murdarasi is thrilled with her new Christmas release, an audio version of The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen – the story that inspired Disney’s Frozen. Karen, who grew up in Garrowhill and now lives on the south side, said: “I was thrilled when Word of

Mouth asked me to do a new version of The Snow Queen. It’s a wonderful story, and hearing talented actors bringing my interpretation to life is really special.” The 65-minute story is read by Sophie Aldred, who played Ace in Dr Who in the late 1980s, and features a full cast, sound effects and music. Karen’s version of The Snow Queen is part of a

trilogy of audio tales from newly established company Word of Mouth Productions. The companion pieces are The Spirits of Christmas, a prequel to Dickens’ A Christmas Carol written by Justin Parsons, and a faithful, unabridged recording of Dickens’ famous story itself. “I love Christmas. It’s the best time of year by miles for me so the opportunity to make these Christmas specials was too go to turn down,” says David Keogh, Director of Word of Mouth Productions. “I wanted to make sure we got the best talent possible for these stories and was delighted to work with Terry Molloy, Sophie Aldred, Christopher Ryan

and Rebecca Gascoigne. As Doctor Who fans, simply having Davros and Ace in the room was enough, but I also grew up with the Young Ones and Bottom on my TV so the prospect of meeting Christopher Ryan was Christmas present enough for me.” “I know that The Snow Queen is topical again mainly because of Disney’s Frozen, “ Karen said. “I haven’t actually seen the film – I didn’t want to accidentally steal any ideas! But I’m looking forward to seeing it for the first time this Christmas.” All three stories can be downloaded from www.wordofmouthproductions.com

Christmas present, so I can spy on you WHILST the regular seasonal increase in domestic abuse and stalking is no surprise, what is new, is how many cheap, simple to use, easily available and seemingly innocent; products are for the abusers to spy on their victims. Stalking behaviour occurs in many domestic settings both while living with a controlling partner or after the couple have split victims of digital abuse. Surveillance technology is getting cheaper, better disguised, simpler to use and easier to find. Violence professionals are telling us that the changing landscape of digital abuse is making it much more difficult to help and women and keep them safe. A wide variety of consumer spyware is available to suit different types of abusers, from domestic violence abusers to stalkers, online predators and trolls. Almost all use multiple digital means of accessing their targeted victims including the Internet, social media, smartphones, GPS and surveillance technology to easily spy on and monitor every aspect of their lives. Many of these will use the holiday gift giving season to increase their spying through

giving compromised gifts. For older children, an effective way to find out what is going on at home is to buy them a laptop computer, smartphone or tablet add put covert spyware on it. The abuser will then be able to track the location, of the device, turn on the microphone and camera remotely to listen see what is happening in the home. The new smartphone a possessive partner gives may include an app that allows them to turn the microphone on remotely and ease drop on their partner’s conversations. Of course the phone’s GPS will allow them to also know exactly where they are or where they’ve have been. There are a lot of products and mobile apps that are designed for legitimate reasons that abusers use. Like the Tile is 1.5 inch square. It is designed to keep track of items, it is small and inexpensive. But it could easily be slipped in handbag or back the seat of a car There is diverse range of covert listening and tracking devices available from both mainstream and speciality retailers. They include listening devic-

es that look like everyday products like an extension cord, iPhone charge or carbon monoxide detector. The items function properly as you would expect, but they are also incorporating a listening device at the same time. The prices and quality vary and their usefulness depends if you have access to the home or if you need to spy on the person remotely via the internet or mobile phone technology. You can get a remote listening device for as little as £25 that works fine in 15 square foot room but it is battery operated so you have to be able to have access to and recharge it. A slightly more expensive model that looks like a standard twin electrical wall socket can be remotely activated and costs £50.00. Disguised motion activated cameras that look like a clock or table lamp have been used as ‘nanny or grandma cams’ but can just as well be used on an unsuspecting partner. These can cost as little as £50 for the ones where you have to be able to access the device to watch the video, to hundreds of pounds for those that where you can watch the videos remotely. The majority of current online safety information helps

protect computers or reduce fraud. It isn’t as helpful for victims of abuse. “It is like giving victims travelling on the underground advice on how not to be pick pocketed when what they should be worried about is someone pushing them in front of a train. When it comes to online crime, advice is focused on malware or fraud. Losing £500 to online fraud can cause someone financial problems and it is upsetting but the crime is over quickly. This is not true for a stalking victim, who will be dealing with their criminal every single day for months or years. Working with victims of abuse is more complex than working with a victim of online fraud. The motives of fraud are easily understood it’s about the money. But stalking and domestic violence is more complicated longer term psychological crime carried out by an obsessive perpetrator; it can lead to identity theft, criminal damage, assaults, rape and even murder. These victims need someone that understands both technology AND how abusers behave in order to be properly supported.

WARM THIS WINTER

WITH forecasts of a bitterly cold winter ahead and energy bills continuing to rise, Mears, which provides care at home services in Glasgow East, is keen to spread the word about the importance of staying warm during the coldest months, especially amongst the elderly. Ann Low, Service Manager for Mears in Glasgow East, which provides care at home services to many local residents, says: “We want to ensure that the older people in our community, and people with medical conditions that are affected by temperature, are aware of the simple things they can do to stay warm this winter. We also hope that our tips might encourage people to pop in to see their elderly or housebound neighbours, just to check that they’re ok and to provide a bit of company during the winter days.” Mears suggests a number of actions that people can take to keep themselves warn during the coldest months of the year, without burning a hole in their pocket: Make sure your home is at the right temperature, which is somewhere between 18°C and 21°C, so you can keep warm and keep your bills as low as possible. Turn the heating down in the rooms that are not in regular use. Shut the doors to any rooms that you don’t use. This will provide another barrier between you and the cold weather outside and will reduce heat loss. Wear several thin layers rather than just one thick one, as the layers trap warm air close to the body, and this will also make it easier to control your temperature. Close your curtains as soon as

it becomes dark to stop the heat escaping and any draughts coming in. If you’re entitled to a free flu jab (which includes those aged 65 or over), make sure you get it. Ask your energy provider if they have special rates for the elderly and check to see if you qualify for any benefits to help pay for extra heating in winter. A shawl or blanket will provide extra warmth if you’re sitting down, and you should also try to keep your feet up because air is colder at ground level. Avoid placing large pieces of furniture in front of your radiators. This means that hot air can circulate more freely. Wrap up warm in bed, and when it’s really cold, wear thermal underwear and socks, and think about investing in a duvet with a higher tog rating. Food is a vital source of energy, which helps to keep your body warm. Try to have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day and keep active in the home if you can. Mears provides services to people who require extra support to help them continue living in familiar surroundings and in comfort at home. It assists individuals of all ages, including disabled people, individuals with learning disabilities, people with mental health problems, or those just needing a little bit of extra help at home. Mears can also help older people to live in their own homes rather than in long-term residential care. From help with cooking and cleaning, to medication or shopping, the company’s friendly, trained support workers offer dependable support for independent living.

GENN Stay safe over New Year

POLICE DRIVE TO REDUCE RISK OF TAXI ROBBERIES

CAB drivers urged to take precautions to ensure their safety Police are cracking down on taxi robberies in the run up to the busiest weekend of the year. Following two incidents in the past week in Ayrshire when drivers were robbed of their takings, we urge taxi drivers to seek crime prevention advice in a bid to keep them safe and secure over the pre-Christmas weekend. Drivers in recent robberies saw three-figure sums of money stolen from them but also felt badly shaken by their ordeals, particularly as one was threatened by knifepoint. With more people going out to enjoy the festivities, the number of taxi journeys increase, resulting in greater amounts of cash being handled by taxi firms. This can leave cab drivers more vulnerable to robberies if they keep large sums of cash in their vehicle. Drivers have been urged to radio in to their base if they feel at risk of robbery or assault, which will be relayed to the police immediately. This is a particularly busy time of year for taxi drivers, who will experience an increase

in the number of journeys they make and hence the amount of cash they handle in any one night. The last weekend of the year is always a busy time for taxi firms. We would urge drivers to be vigilant and to avoid any passengers who may be acting suspiciously and call the police immediately if they are at all at risk. Due to being a cash handling businesses, we urge taxi drivers to take some sensible precautions when handling money: • Don’t keep large amounts of money in your vehicle and bank regularly • If banking is not possible make arrangements to store money securely on you or in a secure part of your vehicle • Keep valuables out of site and don’t leave them in full view when vehicle is unattended • Make sure colleagues are aware of your position • If you have any suspicions don’t pick up the customer and contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency • Keep a mobile phone on you and ensure that it is charged

• Park in a well-lit and busy area between pick-ups • If you are victim of a theft, robbery or other crime, do not further endanger your wellbeing, for example, in an attempt to retain your money • Use the car horn to attract attention, if safe to do so • Try and preserve items that may have been touched by those responsible, such as paper • Ensure that police are contacted without delay • If possible inform your colleagues via your taxi radio, providing descriptions of those involved • If you see anyone that have been responsible for robbing a colleague do not challenge them. Inform police and monitor where they go, if safe to do so To rob taxi drivers at this time of year, particularly when their earnings are being relied upon to provide gifts for their own children and families, is reprehensible. It is only the lowest of the low who would prey on anyone like this, let alone taxi drivers, who are only trying to provide a much-needed service to their local communities.

Book a Glasgow Private Hire taxi, the safest and most convenient way to get around this Christmas Wishing our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Eastends Biggest & Best

Don’t overdo it over New Year IT’S the festive season and we all can’t wait to have a great time, but too much new year cheer can quickly turn the party season into a nightmare. Overdoing it on drink, taking drugs or having unsafe sex can cause damage to your health, relationships and more. Not knowing your limits, trying something that you wouldn’t normally do or drinking that bit too much, means putting yourself at unnecessary risk. It’s easy to get caught up in the party atmosphere and do something you might regret. But it could also lead to something much worse. Making a fool of yourself at a party or ruining your chances with the person you have liked for ages because you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs is just the start. Both alcohol and drugs, or a combination of the two, can impair your judgment, lower your inhibitions and lead to you putting yourself at risk. You might find yourself a victim of a crime or pick up an STI because you were too out of it to remember to put on a condom.

With any illegal drugs or so called ‘legal highs’ (New Psychoactive Substances/New Drugs), you don’t know what you’re getting. New drugs are often incorrectly called ‘legal highs’ when the truth is that the contents may already be illegal and very harmful. There will be variations in the content, effect and strength and substances which look similar or are sold with the same or similar names can have completely different effects. Even the experts can’t be sure what’s in them or exactly what they will do to you, so why ruin your Christmas? It’s not worth the risk. You can feel like you’re stuck in party mode over the festive season. It can be tempting to keep partying for longer than usual but if you want to get 2015 off to a good start it’s important to stay safe. Drugs, whether illegal or legal, will have different effects on different people, and those effects aren’t always easy to deal with. Avoiding mixing substances, especially alcohol and drugs. If you’re in a hot, busy club

you should stay hydrated by taking small, regular sips of water. Try not to have more than one pint of water an hour if dancing, and no more than half a pint if not. Making sure you have a healthy meal before you go out can mean you are less likely to feel too drunk or feel sick or dizzy. “You should also think about keeping safe in the cold weather - drugs and alcohol can affect your ability to notice the cold, so dress for the weather, and stick with your friends and think about how to get home. Buses and trains can get cancelled. Spending extra money on a taxi to get home safely is worth it in the long run Alcohol dents your judgment meaning you might take part in sexual activity you regret in the morning, as Dr Director of Public Health, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, explains: “For some revellers this can lead to uncharacteristic behaviour because of the alcohol lowering their inhibitions and leading to risky sex and possibly a sexually transmitted infection.

GENN

Beauty

With Denni Gee

PARTY SEASON MAKE UP

The perfect party makeup for the festive season is elegant and slick with just a hint of shimmer. Get ready for a big night out with a soft, low-key look blend the Eye-shadow over the eyes from lash line to brow, and then add a wash of colour to the lids using coloured Eye-shadow. Add definition by lining the eyes with Pumped Eye-shadow along the top lash line and halfway along the lower lash line from the outer corner.

laboration with the fashion this winter featuring smoky, gilded shades and beautiful pastels feature lip and eye colours as well as base and bronzing powder.

Then add a flush of colour to the cheeks using the Blush on the cheek bones, and finish with two coats of Flawless Definition Mascara in Black on the lashes and a slick of Lipgloss.

For a glamorous look, add Lashes, try a pair, with extra sparkle. They contain tiny diamantes.

Try the Lipstick in Carmine Rouge, or a matte true red, the Eye Shadow should include a shimmering neutral beige with a mid-tone warm brown, finished with Eye Pencil in Feline or a rich black.

Define lips with Lip Pencil, there are 19 colours in the re-vamped collection, from nudes and brights to bold tones. Apply after lip colour, following the natural outline of the lips. Use soft feathery strokes to avoid drawing a harsh line. Or, to make lip colour last longer, outline and fill in the entire lip area with the pencil, then apply lipstick or gloss on top. Finish with a soft application of liner at the end. For the most natural look, make sure the tip of the Lip Pencil is softly rounded.

For a more dramatic evening look, blend Foreshadow Eye-shadow over the eyelids and buff Pumped Eye--shadow in the outer corner of the eyes blending into the crease. Then line the upper lashes with Lasting Line Eyeliner in Absolute Black, and blend Pumped Eye-shadow all the way along the lower lash line. Make the eyes pop by gently pressing onto the centre of the eyelids and blend into the inner corners of the eyes. Buff Blush onto the cheeks, blending softly up to the temples, and complete the look with two coats of Lash Mascara and Make Your Lipstick shine with Lipgloss t Your winter collection should be an opulent col-

New Year cocktails. Are they the nation’s new favourite tipples? Homemade cocktails have topped a new poll in a bid to find the UK’s favourite New Year drink. The ‘Festive Favourites’ study of 1,000 UK respondents found that Buck’s Fizz is the most favoured alcoholic mixed drink, with nearly a third of the British public (32 per cent) enjoying the champagne and orange juice mix. The classic Irish coffee came in second, preferred by over a quarter of all people (26 per cent), swiftly followed by mulled wine in third place with 25 per cent. Other cocktails in the mix also include gin and tonic, eggnog, buttered rum, mojito and Kir Royal (15 per cent). A broad range of other cocktail choices made up the final two per cent. Find Your Favorite Exploring the variety of cocktails available is a lot of fun and there are many ways that you can find that old favourite or a new drink that’s perfect for the occasion. The Martini and other ‘up’ drinks are the backbone of the cocktail scene and you can find a ‘martini’ in almost every flavour you can imagine. Some of these are classics from the golden age of the cocktail and some are modern mixes that quickly became favourites. Take a Champagne Cocktail, forget the sugar, add some ruby port and a bit of orange juice and you have a Happy New Year. This is quite a delightful Champagne cocktai with a little more depth than most try it with 10 year old port with fresh orange juice and brandy as the base. This is an outstanding New Year’s Eve cocktail. Another being The Resolution Martini is a simple and elegant way to toast the New Year. Really, you cannot get much more simple than gin, apricot brandy and lemon juice for

a finished drink with a perfect balance of dry, sweet and sour. Consider it one last indulgence before you take on those resolutions, which you’re sure to keep this year. For those who prefer their drinks straight up, the survey also revealed that Baileys (20 per cent) and red wine (20 per cent) are the UK’s joint favourite alcoholic Christmas drink while Champagne came in second place with 18 per cent of the vote. White wine is next favourite with 13 per cent of people opting for a sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio or other white wine while surprisingly, prosecco came in fourth place with 9 per cent. Although prosecco and other sparkling wines have proved to be a rising trend as the bubbly of choice, people are still splashing out at Christmas with double the amount opting for the quality bottle of fizz. Favourite festive drinks change with age

The poll also found that tastes change with age. Champagne is found to be favourite for under 25s (22 per cent), while a whopping 65 per cent of the over 25- 54 year olds said that they would be most likely to enjoy Irish cream liqueur. As for the 55+ age group, red wine came out top, with over a quarter of respondents (27 per cent) favouring a festive glass of merlot, shiraz or other red. The nation’s top food and wine pairings When it comes to the perfect food and alcohol combination, a classic combination of mince pies with mulled wine topped the poll with 25 per cent. Second favourite was the pairing of Buck’s Fizz with scrambled eggs and salmon, with 7 per cent of the nation choosing to start their New Years day with this traditional breakfast. For the facts about alcohol, visit drinkaware.co.uk

NEW YEAR’S EVE 2015 CELEBRATIONS IN GLASGOW Glasgow’s traditional Hogmanay party in George Square is no longer. Instead, they have fantastic family-friendly events throughout the day on hogmanay. The new years eve event in 2014 bringing in 2015 will finish at 10pm and feature music and free fun for all the family with kids’ activities including themed crafts and storytelling, highland dancing, ceilidh bands, and traditional Scottish food, drink and entertainment. The aim is to create a family day in George Square rather than a one-off party. 2015 promises to be a great year for Glasgow, so bring it in in style with at George Square with a traditional family celebration with the best in Scottish music, food and drink. Or why not try Ashton Lane’s Hogmanay Street Party It is one of the liveliest spots in Glasgow to spend this new years eve for the bells. 31st December 2014 Location:Ashton Lane Tickets: £25 Revellers can spend the night hopping around their favourite bars and restaurants while enjoying live entertainment in the lane. The Crabbie’s Bus will be in the Lane once again this with projections of the final minutes of 2014 before a spectacular firework display to mark the start of the New Year. Bars and restaurants within the Lane including Brel, Jinty McGinty’s, Ashoka, The

Ubiquitious Chip, The Lane, The Grosvenor Café, Tom Boy, The Research Club and Vodka Wodka will also be offering great dining packages and live entertainment on the night making sure there’s something for everyone. Many bars and hotels hold their own firework display at the midnight. Ruchill Park is a destination where one can find a fabulous view of Glasgow city and its fireworks display. Macdonald Crutherland house welcomes the New Year by celebrating with dinner, music, traditional huggis, piper, countdown and midnight fireworks. If you want a private Family and friends then you can enjoy the New Year party in many of the restaurants. Some of these include Brown’s stravaigin and Mother India’s Café Wherever you celebrate stay safe and enjoy a very HAPPY NEW YEAR The famous and most ironic party of the New Year celebrations takes place at George Square. The party includes live music, highland dancing, arts and craft demonstration and a supply of traditional Scottish food and drinks. This party is followed by eye catching firework display. In previous years firework display took place at midnight but due to issues like crowd control, now this party will last till 10:00 pm.

GENN

Music

With Mark Johnson

EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2015 with J Mascis playing The Art School on Monday 19th and Mark Lanegan poklaying 02 ABC on Tueday 20th. TV Judge Jessie J will play 02 Academy on Wednesday 21st. Metal outfit Funeral for a Friend play King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut on Sunday 18th Buffalo Stance hip hop popper Neneh Cherry also plays

SWG 3 on Friday 30th.

freakout merchants Hawkwind and Focus on Wednesday 4th and Scottish indie rockers Idlewild on Saturday and Sunday 7th and 8th American comedy rockers Steel Panther play 02 Acdameny on Monday 9th. The Barrowland also hosts The Charlatan on Tuesday and Wednesday 10th 11th and Dropkick Murphys on Satur-

day 18th

Indie festival Stag and Dagger returns to Sauchiehall Street on Saturday 3rd. Edinburgh’s Mercury prize winning hip hop outfit Young Fathers play The Art School on Wednesday 20th. Glasgow pop royalty Belle and Sebastian play the Hydro on Friday 22nd. Shoegaze band Ride also play Barrowland on Friday

22nd

Girls.”

NEIL Diamond comes to play The Hydro on Tuesday July 7th 2015. The “Sweet Caroline” singer will be playing all the hits dating back tio the start of his career in the 1950s. FLEETWOOD Mac play the Hydro on Wednesday July

8th. The award-winning and multi-platinum selling British-American rock band formed in 1967 will return to play such hits as “The Chain” and “Dreams.” AMERICAN singer, actress and comedian Bette Midler plays The Hydro on Monday July 13th, playing songs from her latest album “It’s the

SEPTEMBER

play Audio on 27th September 2015. The Huddersfield quartet

have released albums “Enter The Grave” “Infected Nations” and “Skull

JANUARY THE Hydro has a busy January with Paolo Nutini on Friday and Saturday 9th and 10th, Queen and Adam Lambert on Wednesday 14th and Nu Metallers Slipknot and Korn on Sunday 18th. Fans of American alt rock will be pleased this month

MARCH MARCH sees The Hydro host The Black Keys on Sunday 1st, Lionel Ritchie on Friday 6th, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds on Saturday 7th, McBusted on Thursday and Friday 12th and 13th and Paloma Faith on Friday 20th. The O2 ABC hosts acid

MAY THE Hydro hosts a lot of bi names this month, including Take That and Ella Henderson on Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd, local boys Twin Atlantic on Saturday 9th and Dire Straits guitarist and frontman Mark Knopfler on Tuesday 19th.

JULY

BIRMINGHAM based jazz composer and alto saxophonist Chris Young will play O2 ABC on Wednesday 16th September 2015. The Birmingham conservatoire graduate will be playing his own brand of jazz. Thrash metallers Evile will

NOVEMBER U2 bring their iNNOCENCE and eXPERIENCE tour to The Hydro on Friday and Saturday 6th and 7th November 2015. The Irish rockers will play as part of their world tour supporting their new album which was released in con-

juction with Apple. THE Waterboys return to the Barrowland on Tuesday 10th and Wednesday 11th November. Mike Scott and co thrilled audiences earlier this year at the Kelvingrove bandstand and will return to do such hits as “Fisherman’s Blues” and “The Whole Of The Moon”

FEBRUARY THIS Month sees King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut host it’s 25th Birthday celebrations. Highlights include Rae Morris on Tuesday 3rd, We Were Promised Jetpacks on Wednesday 4th, The Twilight Sad on Friday 6th, Julian Cope on Saturday 7th, Fath-

APRIL THE Hydro has a busy month with Sting and Paul Simon on Friday 10th, Nicki Minaj and Trey Songz on Sunday 12th, Olly Murs and Ella Eyre on Tuesday to Thursday 14th -16th and The Vamps , Union J on Friday and Saturday 17th-18th and Ben Howard

JUNE JUNE is a very busy month starting with Wu-Tang Clan at O2 Academy on 5th June. The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall hosts Elvis Costello on Thursday 11th, The Overtones on Thursday 18th and Gladys Knight on Tuesday 25th.

erosn on Friday 19th and The Cribs on Saturday 20th. Other highlights this month include Macy Gray at O2 ABC on Sunday 8th, 10CC at the Royal Concert Hall on Tuesday 10th, Jason Mraz at Royal Concert Hall on Wednesday 11th. For the Indie fans Super Furry Animal Gruff Rhys plays The Art School on on Friday 24th. Errors play the Art School on Saturday 11th. The Barrowland hosts The Wombats on Friday 17th, Seasick Steve on Saturday 18th. Blues guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepard plays O2 ABC on Sunday 12th. The Concert Hall also hosts Status Quo (Mon 20th) andTexas (Wed 22nd). The Hydro will be busy this month with shows from John Barrowman on the 4th, pop legend Sir Elton Johnon Friday 19th, global superstar Taylor Swift on Tuesday 23rd and John Legend on Tuesday 30th. Hampden Park will also welcome a return of Australian rockers AC/DC on Sunday 28th June.

albums “In This Life” and “The Next Room”. Out of town this month is the Mull of Kintyre Music festival, held in Campbeltown, Kintyre on 19th-23rd of August. This festival showcases tradirional and pop musicians. Last year’s headliners were The View

AUGUST MORDRED will play Audio on August 2nd 2015. The American thrash/ funk-metal band based in the San Francisco Bay Area that formed in the ‘80s and regrouped in 2013 to record new material. Earlier releases include the

OCTOBER SIR Cliff Richard, who’s been in the news this year returns to Glasgow on Tuesday 6th October 2015 to play Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. The “Living Doll” and “Mistletoe and Wine” singer is sure to sell out. POP superstars One Direc-

DECEMBER NEARLY a year from now The Hydro will be hosting Simply Red on Saturday 5th December 2015. Mick Hucknall and co will be touring and playing hits such as “Fairground,” “Stars,” and “Money’s too tight to mention.”

Thursday 19th.

tion come to The Hydro on Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th October 2015. Directioners will want to grab their tickets fast. FORMER Genesis man Steve Hackett will be playing the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Sunday 18th October. The guitarist from Genesis’ golden era will be playing hits old and new Tickets are on sale now. CLYDE 1 will be hosting Clyde 1 live at The Hydro on Tuesday 8th December 2015. This year’s line up includeed McBusted, Tulisa, Ella Eyre, Neon Jungle, George Ezra and Passenger. BIG Country will play Classic Grand on Friday 18th 2015. THe scottish rockers are now fronted by ex The Alarm

Frontman Mike Peters.

GENN

Your Horoscope Predictions By Eris

Aries

Libra

(24 Sep - 23 Oct)

Astrologers use the term “planet” loosely, as a catch-all that includes the Sun and Moon, along with Pluto as another source of controversy. Only this isn’t due to ignorance but is because, it leaves more time for interpretation, instead of getting hung up on issues of nomenclature that will probably change. Consider this week for instance, where five out of ten astrological planets are highlighting your professional and career affairs, along with your wider ambitions.

Several planets gather in your domestic zone, mainly as a consequence of this time of year. Your home and family affairs are therefore in the spotlight, along with those you would call kin, whether or not there are others more closely tied to you by blood. The picture is a peaceful and a pleasant one, although you can’t deny the changes that have taken place or the unspoken undercurrents that underpin this state of affairs. You are entitled to live as you see fit and to enjoy relationships that reinforce your sense of self.

Taurus

Scorpio

(24 Oct - 22 Nov)

(21 March - 20 April)

(21 April - 21 May)

You’re aware you have been growing, on an inner level primarily for a number of years. Perhaps this started with some major event, or possibly a series of outcomes all close together that rocked you to the core. Recovering from these challenges took time and caused you to face certain questions, around the way you had previously viewed your position in the big scheme of things. Since then your viewpoint has continued to evolve while the full extent of these metamorphoses, becomes increasingly apparent.

Gemini

(22 May - 21 June)

Let’s not mention Saturn. Next week this planet is gone from your sign anyhow; although you do have another visit of just three months due next year, to tidy up loose ends between June and September, only with six months off for good behaviour in the interim. Let’s concentrate instead on how this will be a sociable week, with more mail and phone calls than usual, augmented by the usual round of messages, emails and texts. People will want and expect your time, so you should be ready to receive a number of invites.

Sagittarius

(23 Nov - 21 Dec)

The prospect of change often unsettles people. There is natural tendency to hope things stay the same, to trust that reliability and durability will prevail, so your affairs can carry on similarly tomorrow as they did today and even the day before. You rather sympathise because when life seems to be in such a state of flux, you notice yourself longing for a little more permanence and for a few firm footholds on which to rely. But if you think about it, there are many occasions when the prospect of an alternative proves both welcome and beneficial.

The Sun leaves your sign on Sunday, not to return until November. Until then make the most of your opportunities, since having our neighbourhood star in your constellation helps the rest of the universe align with your aspirations and objectives, making it easier for good fortune to come your way and for events to turn out in your favour. You are focussed on bolstering your material security but should ask yourself, the price you are willing to pay.

Cancer

Capricorn

(22 June - 23 July)

(22 Dec - 20 Jan)

Half the known planets congregate in your opposite sign. This means the people around you playing a big part in your week, while those you are involved with intimately are to the forefront. Close friends and colleagues also take on a major role, especially if there is nobody who really fits the bill otherwise. Those who through choice or circumstances don’t have someone special to call their own, will be feeling the absence of such a figure more than usual

Five planets will pass through your sign this week. The Sun from Sunday, the Moon on Monday, Mercury from Wednesday onwards, Venus since last week and Pluto for ages now, make this a pivotal period. Its significance may not be wholly obvious in the shorter term because nothing that affected you deeply, ever had an immediate impact that wouldn’t become assimilated and altered later. Currently, you have a number of objectives you are keen to pursue, while the only obstacle is the unsettled and unpredictable situation at home and in your family.

Leo

Aquarius

(24 July - 23 Aug)

(21 Jan - 19 Feb)

Looking after your health need not be tedious. The show mainly does go on, wars are waiting to be won and your glories need neither tarnish nor diminish. You can still dispense largesse, slake your appetites and quench your immeasurable thirst, so it isn’t all about organic produce either. While you are young, you probably don’t need to worry, but your sign is connected with your heart and it is never too early to look after it.

Mars through you constellation keeps you on your toes until mid-January. It has you fully engaged with what is happening around you, encouraging a proactive approach to the issues you’ll face and whatever you’re hoping to do. The energy of the red planet needs to be deployed productively, in terms of physical activity if your schedule allows and in pursuit of your professional ambitions. There is plenty taking place behind the scenes that others may not appreciate, but don’t let irritability spoil great relationship trends if you’re finding your burden oppressive.

Virgo

Pisces

(24 Aug - 23 Sep)

It has been estimated that just 45% of the world celebrates Xmas. But you would never think so across the overwhelmingly English-speaking Internet, where the concept of the holiday season and its attendant snowdrifts and reindeer, threatens to alienate even those from the Southern Hemisphere. Nevertheless, festive is the watchword for you this week, amid an atmosphere that has been exceptionally serious for too long.

Just a Thought

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

I HAVE written in the past about the need to see potential rather than correction in life. Whatever the reason we attach significance to a New year as a chance to set change The last day of the old year up to the first day of the new year offers such potential, for both reflection and anticipation. We remember those we have lost and we recognize the changes that simply living life brings. It allows a fresh chance to make resolutions for change However, it is important to remember that the New Year isn’t meant to serve as a catalyst for sweeping character changes. It is a time for people to reflect on their past year’s behaviour and promise to make positive lifestyle changes. “Setting small, attainable goals throughout the year, instead of a singular, overwhelming goal on January 1 can help you reach whatever it is you strive for. Remember, it is not the extent of the change that matters, it is the act of recognizing that lifestyle change is important and can be achieved by working toward it, one step at a time. By making your resolutions realistic, there is a greater chance that you will keep them throughout the year, incorporating healthy behaviour into your everyday life. Always make resolutions that you think you can keep, for example, if your aim is to exercise more frequently, schedule three or four days a week at the gym instead of seven or if you would like to eat healthier, try replacing dessert with something else you enjoy, like fruit or yogurt, instead of seeing your diet as a form of punishment. Unhealthy behaviours develop over the course

of time. By taking the time and effort into, replacing unhealthy behaviours with healthy ones requires time. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that you have to re-assess everything in your life. Instead, work toward changing one thing at a time. Share your experiences with family and friends. Consider joining a support group to reach your goals, such as a workout class at your gym or a group of co-workers or a consider , helping yourself keep your promise by takin a step out the Australians book and follow a new initiative called Promise or Pay which is motivating Australians to stick to their resolutions, by asking them to donate money to charity if they break their promise. Research shows that only 8 per cent of those who make resolutions in the new year will actually stick to them. But if money is on the line, that figure increases to 72 per cent. Here’s how Promise or Pay

works: 1. Make a promise or a New Year’s resolution (ie quit smoking, exercise more, etc). 2. Pick a charity and promise to donate money if you break your promise. Write your pledge and sign it 3. Tell your friends and family and get them to donate money to your chosen charity. Having someone to share your struggles and successes with makes your journey to a healthier lifestyle that much easier and less intimidating. Perfection is unattainable. Remember that minor missteps when reaching your goals are completely normal and OK. Don’t give up completely because you ate a chocolate bar and broke your diet, or skipped the gym for a week because you were busy. Everyone has ups and downs; resolve to recover from your mistakes and get back on track. Accepting help from those who care about you and will listen strengthens your resilience

Clearing the wood to see the trees

The Genn Crossword

CHECK FOR ANSWERS ON PAGE 30

Across

1. Direction (5) 4. Equilibrium (7) 8. Brass instrument (7) 9. Fruit (5) 10. Beamed (8) 11. Singing couple (4) 13. Kind of lake (6) 15. Movie house (6) 18. Large and scholarly book (4) 19. Precise (8) 22. Tooth (5) 23. Inactivity (7) 24. Family name (7) 25. Laconic (5)

Down (20 Feb - 20 Mar)

Neptune through your constellation means your planetary ruler in your sign. Named after the Roman god of freshwater and the sea, the amorphous nature and hidden depths of the ocean are subtly reflected in your character. Neptune redoubles this and there is no point in wishing it away, since from the outermost edges of the solar system this planet takes a long while, travelling around the zodiac. On the one hand you are idealistic, caring, sensitive and even more intuitive than usual.

and ability to manage stress caused by your resolution. If you feel overwhelmed or unable to meet your goals on your own, consider who you are letting down understand the connection between the mind and body and change your thoughts find the courage within you to do the small things that will make a positive difference for you. If needed adjust your goals so that they are attainable and address emotional issues. Using fear, self-doubt, and even smug satisfaction to promote change is not the way to go. I think John Bingham said it best when he commented on finishing a marathon after years of living a sedentary lifestyle: “The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.” This year, make a promise to yourself to celebrate the good things in you and your life, and make the changes you pledge to do.

1. Notation cancelling a previous flat or sharp (7) 2. A regular route (5) 3. Seven-sided polygon (8) 4. Dairy product (6) 5. Jump (4) 6. Planet (7) 7. Choose by vote (5) 12. Venomous (8) 14. Risk taker (7) 16. Norm (7) 17. In operation (6) 18. Domesticates (5) 20. Theatrical performer (5) 21. Song for solo voice (4)

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A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR MOUNT VERNON MOUNT Vernon Bowling club have had a very successful season. They were crowned champions of Division One of the Glasgow North Eastern League. They were also successful in the Division Three of the Lanarkshire Bowling Leagues, being promoted to Division Two, their highest position for thirty seven years. The Club was one of the founder members of the Lanarkshire Bowling League which celebrates its fiftieth anniversary next year. In the Glasgow Bowling Association’s Top Ten Competition, Mount Vernon were elim-

inated at the semi-final stage by Kelvindale, the eventual winners. Mount Vernon seniors also tasted success by winning sections Two and Three of the Monklands Deniors Competition and went on to win the Monklands Trophy in an exciting final held at Victoria Coatbridge B.C. This year’s competition winners were: Champion - Brian Bowers President’s - Brian Gwynne Victory Cup - Graeme MacDougall Handicap - Richard Wright Vice President’s - Stuart Scobie

Clydesdale Bank Choir Hits Right Note for Charity MUSICALLY-MINDED employees at Clydesdale Bank gave a festive performance for customers and staff in the St Vincent Place head office branch on Thursday 18th December. The Bank’s employee choir, Colla Voce, put on a tuneful repertoire of Christmas carols and songs, as part of the celebrations to mark the branch’s 140th anniversary and to raise much needed funds for charity partner Hospice UK. Glasgow employees, including those at the head of-

fice branch, have raised over £100,000 for Hospice UK since the partnership began seven years ago. Richard Mais, Director, Enterprise Governance at Clydesdale Bank and Musical Director of Colla Voce, said: “The idea for forming the choir was conceived this time last year so it’s great to have been able to round off 2014 with a performance to celebrate head office branch’s 140th anniversary, whilst supporting Hospice UK at the same time.”

Send in your news story and pics to share to editor@thegenn.co.uk

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Political Forum

Dr Don’s View

The column which cuts though the garnish THE pre-election in-fighting has begun at Westminster with the Governing coalition falling out of bed with one another and now throwing the toys out of the cot. On the sidelines, the Conservatives have already tried to gather support by awarding the Ulster Unionists control over corporation tax, however, as usual, the other Stormont parties failed to agree on David’s plans despite being offered over £ 1b. The Labour party are still continuing to criticize everything the Government does, or fails to do, without coming up with anything substantial of their own other than those contained in an exercise in populism. So, Jim Murphy is the new Leader of Scottish Labour Party. This will give political leadership a new dimension as, without being elected as an MSP, and having no seat in the chamber, he will now have to hold his strategy meetings in the Holyrood canteen. He will also be reduced to hand signals to his deputy Kazia Dugdale in the chamber from the visitors’ gallery. Gaining a mere 10% vote over his two rivals, and with no support from the main union, hardly strikes me as a mandate, but announcing to the world on his first day that he “will not be answering to Ed Miliband” is not an auspicious start, and does not make for future harmonious relations in his role as a Labour Party MP at Westminster . Miliband’s speech on Thursday the 11th, now dubbed ‘the speech that remembered the deficit’ was supposed to rectify his omission at the Labour Party Conference. Having listened to his plan to reduce the deficit, and heard his intention to “get people into highly skilled better paid jobs”, I am tempted to describe it as more ‘wishful ravings.’ Does he not realise that if people could find better paid jobs they would take them? It doesn’t need government policy to achieve that, and as far as his plans to reduce the deficit are concerned, I think he

has been listening to Vladimir Putin who is also preparing his flock for a mantra of misery. Two aspects I noted. One from a reporter in the room who said, “I attended today to listen to your thoughts on the economy, I have heard very little so far.” I also noted that on every question about the intended scale of cuts or rises in taxation his answer was the same: “we will have to wait till we get into Government before we can state that.” What a cop out! Does he expect the electorate to vote for him on that ambiguous premise? What colour is this man’s sky? In parallel to his massive cuts and tax rises, he intends to continue pouring millions in foreign aid into the pockets of corrupt despotic officials in the third world whilst British families are queuing at food banks. Check out the £250m paid to Ghana to pay over 20% of Ghana’s workforce that we have just found out don’t exist! Binning this expenditure alone would secure more labour votes than anything he has come up with so far. In Scotland, I think it is noteworthy, especially for those who would want to vote SNP at the General election, that Alex Salmond has clarified the SNP MP’s position in the likely event of a hung parliament. Being the astute politician he is, a trait sometimes mistaken for deviousness (and what politician isn’t), he has realised that Scotland would have a more effective voice at Westminster if the SNP stayed in the wings and made their entrances when the time was right for Scottish affairs. I for one find it hard to imagine Alex sitting meekly on the Labour front benches next to Wallace and Gromit, as part of a coalition, nodding approvingly at question time. If ever there was a time for a loud Scottish voice at Westminster it is now especially with the announcement in the Osborne Autumn statement that he would be setting up an ‘oil fund’ for the North East of England.

CROSSWORD ANSWERS Across 1. North 4. Balance 8. Trumpet 9. Apple 10. Radiated 11. Duet 13. Lagoon 15. Cinema 18. Tome 19. Accurate 22. Molar 23. Inertia 24. Surname 25. Terse

Down 1. Natural 2. Round 3. Heptagon 4. Butter 5. Leap 6. Neptune 7. Elect 12. Virulent 14. Gambler 16. Average 17. Active 18. Tames 20. Actor 21. Aria

This is something Scotland and the SNP have called out for for 40 years! However, Alex has yet to be elected and I think he is in for a hard time in the Gordon constituency. The Anti-Alex team are already girding their loins by casting doubts as to whether he will be able to combine his constituency duties whilst pursuing the promised devolution powers for Scotland. Speaking of Gordon, it was stomach retching to see the crocodile tears being shed for the demise of Gordon Brown from the world of politics, and especially to listen to false friends like Ed Miliband describing him as a “towering political figure”.” Ed had to say that, as he was one of Gordon’s advisors when he was Prime Minister. However, most of us will remember Gordon Brown for his treachery to Scotland and his party when he interfered with the referendum with his now empty promises of ‘home rule’ devolution. His attempt to ‘save the union’ was also bereft of honest intention as it was merely a clumsy attempt to resurrect his shattered political career. It failed, like everything else he attempted and those he enticed to vote ‘No’ now feel short changed in the light of the Smith Commission. He will be remembered as the exchequer who sold off the UK gold reserves at the lowest price in years, the Prime Minister who presided over the worst financial crises since 1919 and had to bail out the banks, who, with his pal Alistair Darling, left

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the UK bankrupt, who opened the floodgates of EU immigration (Free movement of people in the EEC and EU has existed since long before Gordon Brown was Prime MinisterEd), whose enmity with Tony Blair blurred his judgement of even his own staff, and under whose leadership, the Labour Party suffered its worst electoral defeat since 1983. Had he not resigned, he would have faced the humiliation of de-selection by his constituency. My lasting memory of Gordon Brown will be the dishonest gruesome smile his PR people had him adopt for the election campaign. His legacy is not only assured, but summed up poetically by Robert Burns. Wha’ would be a traitor knave Wha’ can fill a coward’s grave Wha’ say base as be a slave Let him turn an flee! 2014 Scottish Political Review of the Year With regards to Scottish politics, the run up to, and the conduct of the referendum, were the outstanding political events of the year, however several factors impacted the outcome. The exceptional political enthusiasm stimulated by the vigorous ‘Yes’ campaigners which generated an energetic optimism for change. The negative ‘Better Together’ campaigners, which foretold the mantra of misery which would befall Scotland if it became independent. The intervention of Jim Murphy and Gordon Brown who betrayed their Labour roots to support the Conservative Lib/ Dem coalition in the ‘No’ campaign. The announcement of the erstwhile ‘Vow’ by Cameron Clegg and Miliband which enticed a large percentage of ‘don’t knows’ to play safe and vote ‘No’ in the hope that Scot-

land would get greater devolved powers without going independent. A number of voters who were confused as to what and whom they were voting for, and had thought of voting ‘Yes’ but did not want to vote for Alex Salmond. All the above combined to strangle a strong demand for independence, but against all known measures of post electoral defeat, the SNP membership had increased out of all proportion, a sure sign of ‘we wuz robbed.’ Unfortunately, the result also caused the resignation of Alex Salmond, and for all that has been said about Alex, no one can fault his devotion to Scotland. He was by far the most dynamic Scottish politician and First Minister since the creation of the Scottish Government. He was a polished orator and was avoided in debate by MPs and TV presenters alike. Now that he has decided to stand for Westminster, he and the anticipated increased number of SNP MPs could be a force to contend with. At home we have a new SNP Cabinet under the leadership of Nicola Sturgeon who has capitalised on the groundswell of support for the party, and has already laid out her priorities for 2015. On the other side of the aisle at Holyrood we have the Scottish Labour party still trying to recover from the error of backing the Westminster Government led ‘Better Together’ campaign, the resignation of its leader and deputy leader, and the description of being Ed Miliband’s Branch Office. The election of a new Scottish Labour Party leader, where 45% of those eligible voted against him, is in sharp contrast to the euphoric election of Nicola Sturgeon to the SNP’s top spot.

Over the border, we had ample evidence of Cameron’s false flag who, within hours of the referendum result, reneged on his ‘vow’ to immediately devolve new wide ranging powers to Scotland by coupling it to a motion to restrict English votes to English MPs, and in parallel, setting up the Smith Commission to buy him the time to confuse the issue. We can now see the frailties of the Smith Commission in that it gave no guidance or allocated responsibility for the implementation of its recommendations. It will be interesting to see which of the proposed new powers becomes a reality. The Queen’s statement I was truly saddened to learn that the Whitehall mandarins and David Cameron were so spooked by the referendum, and fearing that their house of cards was in danger of collapsing, that they leaned on Her Majesty to abandon her hitherto scrupulous impartiality to impart a warning to the people of Scotland carefully phrased as ” to think carefully about the future.” The methodology of delivery was also despicable and underhand in that Sir Jeremy Heywood the Cabinet Secretary and Sir Christopher Geidt conspired for the Queen to apparently issue this statement in the guise of a personal conversation in earshot of a reporter at Crathie Church, who naturally gave it national headlines next day. I believe Her Majesty’s statement resonated with a percentage of ‘don’t knows’ and influenced their decision. Slime- ball tactics. Such is politics, but whilst I continue to cut through the political garnish, I wish you all a fun Christmas and good New Year. Watch this space Dr Don

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STAY SAFE WITH OUR PARTY TIPS • Don’t accept drinks from strangers, stick to sensible drinking guidelines and watch your drink at all times • Combining alcohol and drugs can have serious health implications and can be life-threatening

• If someone is getting aggressive, walk away • Watch when you’re back at home – one in six fires was linked to alcohol while one in 12 involved smoking • It’s cold outside – so wrap up. Lots of people fall asleep outside when drunk – when you’re more at risk of hypothermia

• With alcohol, know your own tolerance levels and don’t go overboard - drink slowly and drink water in between each alcoholic drink

• Get home safely. Travel with friends, use well-lit routes and keep your mobile handy

• Find out the facts about the effects and health risks of illegal substances and new drugs often incorrectly called ‘legal highs’

• Keep a list of important numbers in or by your phone and keep some space free for anyone that needs to stay over.

• Being drunk means you might not think about using a condom, so be sensible and slip a few condoms into your bag or your pocket. If you do decide to try, being drunk or high means that you’re more likely to put a condom on wrong or damage it, so remember to play it safe

• Space out your drinks with soft drinks or water • Don’t mix substances – this includes mixing drugs with alcohol. Combining substances can have serious health implications and can be life-threatening

• Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment, and can lead to having sex that you’ll regret. So make sure you don’t get yourself into a situation where you’re doing something you don’t want to or that you’ll regret later

•Get home safely - make sure your phone is charged and plan how you’re going to get home before you head out. Travel with friends, use well-lit routes and keep your mobile handy. Keep a list of important numbers in or by your phone

• Make sure someone knows who you are out with and where you are • Stay with friends - make sure someone knows who you are out with and where you are. Look after each other – if you are concerned about someone get help

• Carry a condom and use it if the moment arises •Seek help quickly if you need to and be honest with emergency services staff about what you or a friend has taken

GENN Let’s Look Back....Sport review of the year

January PETERSHILL come back from two goals down against hosts Irvine Meadow in the Scottish Junior Cup Fourth Round, but goalkeeper Stevie McNeil is rushed to Crosshouse Hospital, Kilmarnock, with a severe knee gash which requires 25 stitches. McNeil regained full fitness by late March, and went out on loan to Wellhouse Amateurs, where he won two cups. Meanwhile, Meadow make no mistake in the replay and secure a 2-0 win with second half goals from Fraser and Maxwell. FINNART Amateurs maintained interest in both Scottish and West of Scotland Cups. The Bridgeton club trailed twice against West opponents, Strathclyde University, but won 3-2. Danny Simpson hits a wonder goal from 30 yards in their 4-3 Fosters’ victory over East Kilbride.

February NORTH BRITISH lead the way in the Winter Carpet Bowls League. PETERSHILL returned to Glasgow’s South Side and Newlandsfield Park for the second time in as many weeks. Three players - two from Peasy and co-boss Willie Paterson - were sent off. The Springburn team still managed to beat Pollok 2-1 in the West of Scotland Cup. To run salt in the wounds, ex-Pollok midfielder Paul McQuilken scored their 85th minute winner. Four players were red-carded in the Petershill v Clydebank league match. MARYHILL-based Sapphire Gymnastics Club celebrated a double Volunteer of the Year award honour from the Sports Council for Glasgow, and National sportscotland respectively. GLASGOW City F.C. were in-

vited to the Turbine Potsdam (Germany) indoor pre-season “Meet the Champions” International Cup. The Scottish treble-winners received an S.F.A. Quality Mark Development Award in a presentation at Hampden Park. Striker Suzanne Lappin was named City Player of the Year .and Players’ Player of the Year.

GLASGOW Phoenix Touch-Rugby were encouraged by the attendances during their New Year training sessions at Stepford Road. Four members took part in a National Training stint, where they were able to pick-up numerous ideas on coaching and training. GLASGOW City F.C. and Scotland defender Rachel Corsie agrees to sign for Notts County Ladies. THREE West of Scotland Under-21 Youth League teams reach the National Lady Darling Cup Quarter-Finals. BAILLIESTON Juniors Under-16 beat Cambuslang 5-0 in the West Region Cup (Second Round), and FINNART win 4-2 at Pollok United. CELTIC (Under-13) hammer Gleniffer 11-0, and MARY-

BAILLIESTON Juniors Under-16 produce a stunning second half fightback against West Region Quarter-Finalists Celtic, who lose 2-1. SHETTLESTON Juniors reach the Third Round of the Central League Cup with a 4-1 success over Wishaw at Greenfield Park. Former Petershill captain Ryan Jordan returns to Springburn and helps new club, Arthurlie, notch-up a 2-1 victory. SYFA West Region Under-15s beat Central Region 4-1, while the Under-16 squad are held to a 3-3 draw. BROOMHOUSE F.C. and Overtown are accepted into the 2014-2015 Caledonian League - subject to SAFA approval. GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE

boss Billy Adams is successful with an appeal to reduce his 10-month ban after being sent off in a league game at Neilston Juniors. The Brig O’Lea club led 2-1 when play was abandoned four minutes from time. ST ROCH commence interviews for the position of Team Manager.

NORTH BRITISH host the North Eastern Carpet Bowls League presentation, which is fitting since they are crowned champions again. GARROWHILL are runners-up. TOWER HEARTS are defeated 4-2 on penalties (1-1) by Goldenhill in the Trans World Soccer Scottish Youth Cup Semi-Finals. Gowdie go forward to meet record holders Campsie Black Watch, who win the May Final at Airdrie. PETERSHILL crash out of another knock-out tourney on spotkicks. This time it’s 5-3 at Cumbernauld United in the New Coin Holdings West of Scotland Cup. BOYS’ Club goalkeepers boost weekly coaching sessions at Petershill. Among those involved are various age groups from Baillieston Juniors, Clyde, Drumchapel Ama-

March CRANHILL United Secretary Stephen Brown is delighted to hear radio pundit Alan Rough write off his club’s chances of reaching the Scottish Sunday Trophy semi-finals following a “live draw”, which pitches them away against Quarter-Finalists Tayport. United come up with the perfect answer. Gary Rae, Martin Welsh and Paul Martin net in a brilliant 3-1 victory. GLASGOW City F.C. swoop to sign Under-19 Scotland cap, Abbi Grant, from Forfar Farmington. GLASGOW Tigers open their speedway season at Edinburgh Monarchs. WELLHOUSE A.F.C. trio Robbie Peebles, Gary Gaitens and Stephen McDevitt are selected for international duty.

joined by a girls’ section. TOWER HEARTS defeated Johnstone Burgh in the Trans World Soccer Under-21 Scottish Cup, while PETERSHILL suffer a shock penalty kick defeat against visitors Bellshill Athletic in the Central League Cup. ST ROCH player-coach Shaun Fagan quits Garngad due to work commitments.

teurs and Summerston. FORMER St Roch assistant manager Joe McColl returns to Garngad on an interim basis until the end of the season as the club continue their search for a new boss. PETERSHILL co-manager Scott Smith confirms he will depart the North Glasgow junior club at the end of the season. GLASGOW Phoenix Touch-Rugby team fail to win a game, but make plenty of friends at the fifth annual Manchester Chargers event. Two-dozen entries attend from all four corners of the country. CRANHILL United win their Sunday Trophy Semi-final. An own goal, Marc McGeough and Craig Halliday help them to a 3-1 victory against Fairfield Sports and Leisure. WELLHOUSE A.F.C. are beaten in the Saturday Fosters tourney

by Quarter-Final replay visitors Glasgow Harp. CARMYLE (Champions) are paired against Belvidere in the first game of the new North Eastern League outdoor season. The game ends 5-5. The league (two divisions) is sponsored for a third successive season by Bill’s Tool Store.

enhill 5-4 on penalties in the Only Sport Golden Goal Cup Final. The match had finished 4-4. WELLHOUSE A.F.C. end a 28year wait in winning the M and M Trophy, beating Harestanes 5-1. Goalkeeper Stevie McNeil saves three penalties as Wellhouse defeat Pollok Amateurs in the League Cup Final. HAGHILL A.F.C. goalkeeper Robert Davis saves one spot-kick in the club’s penalty win against Thrashbush. It’s the second time Haghill have won the Billy Harkness Memorial Cup. ORGANISERS of the Glasgow City Cup decide on a venue-switch for their annual three-day tournament. The new location was Renfrewshire instead of Glasgow Green due to the Commonwealth Games.

BROOMHILL Sports Club launch an ambitious recruitment drive aimed at grassroots talent, coaches and teams. SYFA West Region Under-15s beat South East 5-4 on penalties at Toryglen. SOUTH CAMLACHIE defeat Ferguslie Star 4-3 in the Coronation Cup Final.

April

May CRANHILL United’s dream of winning the Scottish Sunday Trophy is dashed in a 1-0 defeat by former holders Harvester A.F.C. at Livingston. McGregor grabs the crucial first-half goal. AIRDRIE Football Club’s Excelsior Stadium is selected again to host seven Scottish Youth Football Association National Cup finals, which are sponsored by Trans World Soccer. HAGHILL A.F.C. go through to the Airdrie and Coatbridge League Cup final at the same venue. Rolling Barrel (Uddingston) win 4-1. FINNART Under-14s are successful at the Blackpool tournament. Julien Kouame nets

HILL JUNIORS (under-19) knock-out West Park United on penalties. FIRHILL United need spot kicks to beat Quayside in the Strathclyde Cup. CRANHILL United dispose of Dykehead A.F.C. in the Fosters Scottish Sunday Trophy at Shotts. They trailed twice, but win on penalties. Stepford Road was the venue for their next cup mission against East End Athletic, who were beaten 6-0. BROOMHILL Sports Club appoint former Partick Thistle and Shettleston Juniors coach Alastair McColl to take charge of Youth Development. BUDHILL Football Academy announced a rapidly expanding development set-up. Twelve boy’s teams were

June the winning goal against Blackpool Rangers in the Plate final- a year after Finnart beat Redcar to lift the Blackpool Cup! SHETTLESTON edge out VALE OF CLYDE 3-2 in Third Round of the Euroscot Central League Cup. MARYHILL, unable to field a team due to injuries, withdraw. WELLHOUSE A.F.C. beat Colville Park 2-1 in the League Cup Semi-Final thanks to a Thomas Sinclair double. BROOMHOUSE A.F.C. win another title (Division 3) in the Greater Glasgow Premier A.F.L. SHETTLESTON and VALE OF CLYDE are promoted from their respective divisions in the West

Region. BSC GLASGOW appoint ex-professional John Brogan as their Manager and Head of Coaching. RANGERS SABC lose 3-0 against Edina Hibs (Edinburgh) in the Scottish Under-13 Cup final.

GLASGOW City F.C. beat Hibernian 3-0 in the Women’s League Cup Final. No club has won this competition three years running. BANNERMAN High School lose 7-0 against Lasswade in the TSB Under-15 Girls’ Shield Final. SPRINGBURN Academy Seniors win the Caledonian Cup. ST ROCH and PETERSHILL Legends raise nearly £600 in a charity match at James McGrory Park. SHETTLESTON Bowling Club Ladies’ Section bring in £1000 from their Charity Day at Culrain Street. IAN BEATTIE is knocked out of the Lanarkshire Champion of Champions’ Tournament. LAURA WELSH (Garrowhill) plays for Scotland at the British Isles Home International in Jersey. TOWER HEARTS beat Gold-

GENN Let’s Look Back....Sport review of the year

July 3QSPORTS promote Scotland’s longest-running goalkeeping coaching setup. Shot Stoppers celebrate 20 hugely successful years, and a collection of over 250 items of silverware won by the young goalkeepers they have helped develop since 1994. GLASGOW City F.C. run a successful Soccer Camp. MOUNT VERNON (Division One winners) beat Division Two champions FOXLEY in the North Eastern League PlayOff at Chryston. Foxley, Baillieston and North British are all promoted, while Belvidere, Chryston and Sandyhills find themselves relegated. GLASGOW City F.C. beat

August CELTIC 2-0 in the Scottish Cup Second Round. Goals from Suzanne Lappin and Leanne Crichton. City win two and lose one of the SWF West Regional League Cup Finals at Petershill. The Under-13s and Under-15 team are successful, while Rangers beat the Under-17 age group. AMY McDONALD is confirmed Full-Time Head of Youth at Glasgow City F.C. STEPHEN MILLIGAN wins two Player of the Year awards at Haghill A.F.C., GARY McDOUGALL is top scorer with 30 goals. PETERSHILL break away from traditional pre- season training methods and introduce Sports Science to the

Springburn club. A host of new faces arrive at the Super Premier Division club. There is a mixture of junior players and amateur signings. Paul Woods signs for Queens Park, and Jordan Murch joins big-spending Irvine Meadow.

ST ROCH stun SHETTLESTON with a 2-1 home win on the opening day of the new Junior Football season. PETERSHILL are beaten 1-0 by Bellshill Athletic in their first Sectional League Cup match at Springburn. VALE of Clyde easily overcome East Kilbride Thistle 4-0. The following midweek, St Roch are hammered 10-2 by Bellshill at Tollcross. ASHFIELD fail to win a single game in their group (Section 6), which is topped by Clydebank. A huge influx of new Under-21 clubs force West of Scotland League officials to construct

cessful. GENN Sport runs a special feature on the FOXLEY Centenary celebrations. GARROWHILL Bowling Club organise a very successful Friendly Fours’ competition, which is sponsored by Glasgow Law Practice (Baillieston).

WELLHOUSE A.F.C. commence their Fosters Scottish Amateur Cup campaign with a 10-1 win at Redbrae. BROOMHOUSE F.C. dump Renton United 13-1, and EASTHALL demolish Vale of Girvan 11-1. GLASGOW City Council award FOXLEY Bowling Club a Civic Reception as part of their Centenary Year. BOWLS “Re-United” was our successful story following a previous article which revealed St Rollox member William McInnes had lost one of his collection-and gained a new bowl belonging to somebody else! NORTH BRITISH start the defence of their Carpet Bowls League title with a 5-1 defeat at GARROWHILL. FINNART Under-15 carry

September GLASGOW City F.C. chase more European glory after being paired against Polish cracks Medyk Konin in the last 32 of the Champions League. City are named winners in the “sports category” at the Inspiring Awards - People Make Glasgow 2014. SPORTS Council for Glasgow accept nominations for their Annual Awards night. SHETTLESTON Bowling Club host an Open Day to try and recruit a new generation of bowlers into the sport at Culrain Street. PETERSHILL suffer a shock First Round exit in the Scottish Junior Cup at Hermes (Bridge of Don). ASHFIELD are bundled out by Thornton Hibs, but SHETTLESTON and ST

ROCH use their home advantage to defeat Ardeer and Lochgelly Albert respectively. BILLY DAVIDSON is crowned Gents’ Champion at Garrowhill Bowling Club after defeating former winner Alan Purdie. FINNART Amateurs beat East End rivals SOUTH CAMLACHIE 3-2 in the League Cup. Brian Paton saves a penalty, and Andrew McCulloch converts one. VALE of Clyde crush ASHFIELD 5-0 in their first league game. Derek Hepburn bags a hattrick. PETERSHILL lose 1-0 to Shotts Bon Accord, while SHETTLESTON, MARYHILL and GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE are all suc-

top the Carpet Bowls League. C RA N H I L L A . F. C . clinch a kit and after-match food hospitality sponsorship deal with David Millen Q u a l i t y Fa m i l y B u t c h e r, C a r n t y n e S q u a r e . W O LV E S B . C . U n der-14 fix-up a player-holdall sponsorship deal thanks to Shettleston-based Impulse D e n t a l L a b o r a t o r y. W E L L H O U S E A . F. C . b e a t C a r r i c k ( Ay r ) i n t h e Fo s t e r s S c o t t i s h Cup, but F I N N A RT lose their replay at Shortlees. T Y N E C A S T L E A . F. C . hit a last-minute winner against St Mungo’s i n t h e We s t o f S c o t l a n d

UEFA Women’s Champions League, and the domestic treble winners go on to top their group. BROOMHOUSE F.C. retain the East Kilbride Y.M. Invitation Tournament Trophy at Lochinch Playing Fields. Joe McGowan is voted Man of the Match.

out a bag- packing fund-raiser, and make a substantial three-figure donation to Cash for Kids. FINNART Amateurs midfielder Brian Blair is the first winner of a new Player of the Month award sponsored by Asda (Parkhead). THREE of the Bridgeton teams decide to boost the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign by switching from their usual blue strip to a pink kit. The trio are Amateurs, 2003 and 2000’s. HAGHILL A.F.C. bow out of the Fosters Scottish Sunday Trophy (1-0) against Salvesen in Edinburgh. GLASGOW City F.C. complete a third domestic treble after beating Spartans in the Scottish Cup Final.

They advance through to the Quarter-Finals of the Champions League for the first time. SHETTLESTON, PETERSHILL, GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE and VALE of CLYDE survive the opening round of the New Coin Holdings West of Scotland Cup. ST ROCH, MARYHILL and ASHFIELD all exit.

October

November SHETTLESTON and ST ROCH fly the local flag in the Scottish Junior Cup. To w n defeat Neilston 1-0, but the Candy Ro c k l o s e 6 - 2 a t S t A n drews United. The latter keep their ever-changing squad busy with floodlight games against amateur clubs. STEVIE WILSON becomes the second winner of the Asda (Parkhead) Player of the Month award at Finnart. GARROWHILL Bowling Club Ladies’ Section report £1800 was raised from a Charity Coffee Morning. S H E T T L E S T O N

four divisions - Premier to Third - in time for the start of the domestic season. Match Secretar y Robert Toohill confirms ever y cup competition will be sponsored, while LSK Supplies continue to promote the four divisions. GARROWHILL Bowling Club stage the Monklands Bowling Association Centenar y and Championship Finals. FOXLEY and CARDONALD Bowling Clubs celebrate 100 years, and their one-off match is fully covered by GENN Sport. GLASGOW City F.C. provide three venues as top seeds in the Qualification Round of the

December Amateur Cup. ASHFIELD concede ten goals in a league game at Dunipace Juniors. G L A S G O W G i r l s F. C . h o l d a Yo u t h R e c r u i t ment Day at Budhill Park.

F I N N A RT a n d G o l d e n h i l l g o t h ro u g h t o t h e C e n t e n a r y C u p Fi n a l . The Bridgeton club beat Motherwell Thistle 5-1 and Gowdie defeat Hillington 3-1. Finnart Under-15s donate to a local food bank, and also lose a p ro u d u n b e a t e n d o m e s tic re c o rd s t re t c h i n g back 13 months. G E N N S p o r t f e a t u re s the success of Finnart’s S p e a ke r s N i g h t , w h i c h helped celebrate 35 years. WELLHOUSE A . F. C . hold their S p e a ke r s N i g h t a t To l l c ro s s . H AG H I L L A . F. C . a n nounce a strip deal involving Milnbank Housing Association.

P O S TA L United A . F. C . f i n a l l y e d g e p a s t Ra t t r a y ’ s X 1 2 - 0 i n t h e Fo s t e r s S c o t t i s h C u p ( re play), but then lose 5-2 a t Fo u r t h Ro u n d h o s t s Wi s h a w H S F P. B R O O M H O U S E F. C . h i t f o u r g o a l s i n a 20-minute spell to beat L a r k h a l l U n i t e d , w h o re ply twice. PETERSHILL play W h i t l e t t s Vi c s a t D a m Pa r k i n a f r i e n d l y t o m a r k t h e Ay r s h i re c l u b ’ s 7 0 t h b i r t h d a y. Vi c s w i n 4 - 3 . WELLHOUSE A . F. C . ex i t t h e C i n e m a C u p o n p e n a l t i e s a g a i n s t H a re s tanes. T O W E R H E A RT S a re b e a t e n 6 - 3 a t S t Pe t e r s Giffnock North in the

Scottish Under-21 Cup. BAILLIESTON JUNI O R S g o t h ro u g h 3 - 1 a g a i n s t Tr a n e n t . SHETTLESTON a re p a i re d a w a y t o C l y d e bank Juniors in the Fo u r t h Ro u n d o f t h e Scottish Cup on January 17, 2015.

GENN

DAVID SLAYS CUP GIANTS KIDS SECURE DENTAL BOOST WOLVES 2001 age group Secretary John Coyle is delighted a Shettleston Road-based business has provided much-needed sponsorship - and hopes more will follow in the New Year. Proprietor Paul McFall, who runs the Impulse Dental Laboratory, has kindly supplied the Under-14 team with player-holdalls.

Impulse are crown and bridge specialists, and supply a service to dentists throughout the U.K. He said: “I played amateur football in Baillieston for a few years, and I know it can be difficult finding sponsorship, so I am more than happy to help the Wolves coaches and young players.” John Coyle admitted: “This is a great boost for us.

Wolves 2001 was established in 2007 by club founder Tam Eadie, and had two 7-a-side teams playing in the Lanarkshire League. Tam passed the reigns over to current coaches Martin Nelson and Stephen Harley. Three years ago we joined the Central Scotland Youth League, where we still play to very high standard.”

JAGS’ SIX-GOAL CUP SPREE BAILLIESTON Thistle eased through the Fourth Round of the Fosters Scottish Amateur Cup with a 6-2 win over hosts Blochairn Star A, and now DAVID OMOZIK... the Broomhouse striker has been outstanding in the club’s Fosters Scottish Amateur Cup run. BROOMHOUSE F.C. striker David Omozik loves scoring goals in the Fosters Scottish Amateur Cup - and knocking out more experienced clubs along the way! Two four-goal hauls in successive rounds against Renton and Craigneuk was followed by a double in their recent 4-2 home win against Larkhall United. Renton and Craigneuk are members of the Greater Glasgow Premier set-up - which

Broomhouse left at at the end of last season after winning back-to-back Division 4 and Division 3 championships enroute for the Caledonian League - while Larkhall play in the Strathclyde Saturday Morning League. Omozik bulleted home a Ryan McMillan free kick for the opener against United, and a clever inter-change with Craig Scott saw him dink No 2 over the visitors’ goalkeeper. Larkhall, unbeaten in 10

games, tried to hit back on the resumption, but David Quinn made it 3-0. Darryl McKernan hit the goal of the game soon after. He left four defenders in his wake and slotted home a superb counter. United recovered to score twice in a nervy final 10 minutes. Next up for Broomhouse F.C. is a Fifth Round home clash against St James (MAFA).

TRANS WORLD SCOTTISH CUP TRANS World Soccer Scottish Youth F.A. Under-21 Cup THIRD ROUND: St Mirren 6, Bridgend 0; Sauchie 10, Albion Rovers 5; Wishaw W Wands 6, Newcraighall 2; St Peters Giffnock North 5, Leith 3; Bonnyton 0, Harmony Row 2; Happylands 1, Maryhill Juniors 2; Blackburn United 4, Glasgow Uni 1; Tranent 4, Broomhill 4; Campsie Black Watch holders) 1, Rossvale 1 ; Tower Hearts 1, Port Glasgow 1; Eastwood 2, Bonnyrigg Rose

0; Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 21s 1, Baillieston Juniors 4; East Kilbride Rolls Royce 1, West Park United 3; Westfield 4, Dumbarton United 1; East Kilbride 3, Bonnyrigg Rose F.C. 2; St Andrews 2, Antonine 7. Replays - Broomhill 0, Tranent 1; Rossvale 5, Campsie Black Watch holders) 1; Port Glasgow 0, Tower Hearts 2. FOURTH Round - Harmony Row 2, Sauchie 1; Maryhill Juniors 2, Rossvale 2; Baillieston Juniors 3, Tranent Juniors 1; St

Mirren 4, East Kilbride F.C. 2; Blackburn 2, West Park United 2; Eastwood 0, Antonine 4; Wishaw W Wands 7, Westfield 2; St Peters Giffnock North 6, Tower Hearts 3. Replays - Rossvale 2, Maryhill Juniors 0; West Park United 3, Blackburn 0. QUARTER-FINALS: Rossvale v St Peters Giffnock North; Antonine v Baillieston Juniors; Wishaw W Wanderers v West Park United; Harmony Row v St Mirren YFC.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL GAMES

Saturday, December 27. Super Premier Division - Clydebank v Petershill. Super First Division - Shettleston v Cumbernauld. District First Division - Ashfield v Blantyre Vics; Vale of Clyde v Lanark; St Anthony v Maryhill. Second Division – Glasgow Perthshire v Royal Albert; Vale of Leven v St Roch. Saturday, January 3, 2015. Super Premier- Shotts v Peter-

shill. Super First – Pollok v Shettleston. District First Division - Ashfield v St Anthony; Lesmahagow v Vale of Clyde; Maryhill v Larkhall. District Second Division – Glasgow Perthshire v Port Glasgow; East Kilbride v St Roch. Saturday, January 10, 2015. Super Premier- Beith v Petershill. Super First – Shettleston v

Ardeer Thistle. District First Division - St Anthony v Vale of Clyde; Ashfield v Wishaw; Maryhill v Lanark. District Second Division Johnstone Burgh v Glasgow Perthshire; Rossvale v St Roch. All kick-offs 1.45pm. Check with your local junior club in the event of bad weather. There will be pitch inspections.

meet Letham A.F.C. at home. GARROWHILL Thistle crashed out 9-1 at holders Hurlford, while POSTAL United fell 5-2 against Wishaw

HSFP. SOUTH CAMLACHIE defeated Stoneywood 7-3, and will travel to Fifth Round hosts Woodside A.F.C.

WINTER CARPET BOWLS SHETTLESTON are one of eight clubs going into Individual Competition action at the North British venue on Thursday, January 8, 2015, writes JACK HIGH. The Culrain Street outfit play Pairs opponents GARROWHILL. Other fixtures at North British are: SINGLES - Whitevale v Springboig. TRIPLES – Garrowhill v Mount Vernon. RINK - Mount Vernon v Garrowhill. Two other venues are staging competitive action. SPRINGBOIG on Tuesday, January 6, 2015. SINGLES - Shettleston v Mount Vernon. PAIRS - North British v Whitevale. TRIPLES - North British v Shettleston. RINK - North British v Whitevale. MOUNT VERNON on Thursday, January 8, 2015. SINGLES - Garrowhill v North British. PAIRS - Sandyhills v Springboig. TRIPLES – Springboig Sandyhills. RINK - Sandyhills v Springboig. Venue 4 Byes - SINGLES Sandyhills. PAIRS- Mount Vernon. TRIPLES - Whitevale. RINK - Shettleston. Semi-Finals at SHETTLESTON on Thursday, January 15, 2015. SINGLES - Garrowhill or North British v Shettleston or Mount Vernon. PAIRS - Sandyhills or Springboig v North British or Whitevale.

TRIPLES – Springboig or Sandyhills v North British or Shettleston. RINK - Sandyhills or Springboig v North British or Whitevale. Semi-Finals at SANDYHILLS on the same evening. SINGLES - Whitevale or Springboig v Sandyhills. PAIRS - Garrowhill or Shettleston v Mount Vernon. TRIPLES - Garrowhill or Mount Vernon v Whitevale. RINK - Mount Vernon or Garrowhill v Shettleston. FINALS night is booked for GARROWHILL on Tuesday, January 20, 2015. DRAW for the First Round of

the Top 10 Competition is: Shettleston v Springboig, Mount Vernon v North British, Sandyhills v Whitevale. Bye - Garrowhill (holders). EASTERN CARPET BOWLS LEAGUE. WEEK NINE - Mount Vernon 0, North British 6 (9-28); Garrowhill 6, Shettleston 0 (32-6); Sandyhills 6, Springboig 0 (23-10). WEEK TEN - Shettleston 6, Mount Vernon 0 (34-6); Springboig 4, Garrowhill 2 (14-22); Whitevale 6, North British 0 (23-17). WINTER CARPET BOWLS LEAGUE.

LATEST PLACINGS: END OF FIRST BLOCK. Shettleston

Pts

214

134

Garrowhill

226

148

North British

193

165

Whitevale

156

171

Springboig

140

193

Mount Vernon

125

176

Sandyhills

127

194

CLUB NEWS...FEATURES...MATCH ACTION REPORTS SPECIAL... CALL 0141 552 9977 or email: sport@thegenn.co.uk

GENN

CLUB NEWS...FEATURES...MATCH ACTION REPORTS SPECIAL...CALL 0141 552 9977 or email: sport@thegenn.co.uk

TOWN TARGET BANKIES’ WIN MATCH ACTION REPORTS

ROBERT CAMPBELL (wearing white) could be a key player at both ends of the park for Shettleston in next month’s Scottish Junior Cup clash against Clydebank at Holm Park, Yoker. SHETTLESTON will put their push for promotion to one side next month and target a Scottish Junior Cup win against Clydebank. Town know their Bankies game-plan almost worked last season in the Euroscot Engineering Central League Cup. A injury-time equaliser (2-2) sent the Fourth Round clash into penalty kicks, which Clydebank won 5-4. Under former Shettleston centre-back and club Player of the Year, Budgie McGhie, Bankies finished fourth top of the Stagecoach Super Premier Division last season, but are struggling to date at the opposite end of the table.

A number of departures have taken place - including Reece Pearson and Graeme Ramage. Pearson scored in last season’s League Cup final win (30) against Cumbernauld United, while Ramage netted eight goals in 18 appearances. Former Annan Athletic, Rangers, Queens Park winger Derek Carcary is a recent signing. JUNIOR CUP FACT FILE: Clydebank. First Round- Colony Park (A) 0-0. Replay 4-1. Second Round - Lossiemouth (H) 7-0. Third RoundWest Calder United (A) 3-0. Shettleston. First Round Ardeer (H) 2-1. Second Round - Royal Albert

(A) 3-1. Third Round - Neilston Juniors (H) 1-0. Game to be played on Saturday, January 17, 2015. Kick-off 1.45pm. Meanwhile, Shettleston are set to “first foot” promotion favourities Pollok on January 3, 2015. Town beat the South Side club 3-2 - thanks to a late winner - in September - and will be aiming to complete what would be a superb domestic double. Pollok were relegated into the Super First Division at the end of last season, and manager Tony McInally has since revamped their squad with several excellent signings.

LSK SUPPLIES WEST YOUTHS

Only Sport League Cup, Second Round - Broomhill 1, Renfrewshire Thistle 4; Gleniffer 1, St Mirren 6; Westfield 1, Calderhill 3. Birdston Kennels League Cup, First Round – Victoria F.C. 2, Pollok 3. Second Round - Campsie Black Watch 0, Bonnyton Thistle 2; Steins 1, Rossvale 3; Sauchie 0, Goldenhill 3. Only Sport Golden Goals Cup, First Round - Wishaw W Wands 1, Rutherglen Glencairn 4. Birdston Kennels Glasgow Cup, First Round - Giffnock Soccer Centre 2, Castlemilk 1; St Andrews 1, Westfield 3. Second Round - Albion Rovers 4, Broomhill 2.; Gleniff-

er 3, Renfrewshire Thistle 5; Bridgend 2, Rosebank 2 (2-4 on pens); Dunipace 0, Barrhead Arthurlie 1; Kirkie Rob Roy 21s 3, Harmony Row 3 (4-5 on pens); St Peters Giffnock North 0, Glencairn 2. LSK Supplies West of Scotland Cup, First Round- Antonine 4, Kirkie Rob Roy 21s 2; Kirkie Rob Roy Juvs 2, Erskine 1; Baillieston Juniors 6, Westfield Colts 1; Dumbarton 0, Tower Hearts 5. Second Round - Johnstone Burgh 3, Broomhill 0; Holytown 0, Antonine 1. Only Sport League Cup, First Round - Calderhill 4, Dumbarton United 2. Second Round - Bishopton 8, Milngavie 1; Bridgend 2,

West Park 8; Maryhill Juniors 4, Holytown Colts 4 (3-4 on pens). Premier Division - East Kilbride Rolls Royce 1, St Peters Giffnock North 0; Campsie 2, Ea st Kilbride Rolls Royce 1; Goldenhill 5, Baillieston Juniors 3; Harmony Row 0,Johnstone Burgh 4; Bonnyton 0, Steins 0. First Division - Kirkie Rob Roy Juvs 1, Glasgow University 2; Vale of Leven 1, Victoria F.C. 3; Kirkie Rob Roy 21s, 2, Claremont 1; Glasgow University 3, Vale of Leven 0. Second Division - Barrhead Arthurlie 1, Albion Rovers 5; Castlemilk 5, Barrhead Arthurlie 0. Third Division - Rosebank 1, St Andrews 3; Milngavie 0, Bridgend United 3.

FINNART MINI KICKERS. PHASE ONE FINNART A 3, KILBOWIE 0. Callum Blair,Zach Fenwick, Jack Marr. FINNART 5, PALACE PARK 1. Callum Blair 3, Zach Fenwick, Cole Jackson. FINNART 4, WESTERCOMMON 2. Zach Fenwick 2, Callum Blair 2. FINNART 4, PALACE PARK 0. Zach Fenwick 2, Jack Marr, Callum Blair. FINNART B 5, NGU MILAN 1. Preston Jay Power 3, Kris Watson, Declan Clark. FINNART 6, ARSENAL 1. Preston Jay Power 3, Declan Clark 2, Kris Watson. FINNART 1, DRUMSAGARD 2. Preston Jay Power. FINNART 10, DRUMSAGARD 0. Leon Power 5, Kris Watson 2, Declan Clark 2, Preston Jay Power. FINNART C 4, DRUMSAGARD 0. Aiden Sinclair 2, Jay-R Brown 2. FINNART 1, KILBOWIE 0. Jay-R Brown. FINNART 3, PALACE PARK 0. Jay-R Brown, Dylan Haining. FINNART 3, WESTERCOMMON 2. Dylan Haining, Mason McCausland, Jay-R Brown. PHASE TWO: FINNART A 7, CAMBUSLANG 1. Cole Jackson, Kaden McKechnie, Zach Fenwick 2, Jack Marr 3. FINNART 1, SCOTLAND BC 1. Zach Fenwick. FINNART 5, WESTERCOMMON 0. Jack Marr 2, Kaden McKechnie 2, Aiden Coll. FINNART 0, EAGLE B.C. 0. FINNART B 2, PALACE PARK 3. Kris Watson, Preston Jay Power. FINNART 4, DRUMSAGARD

Preston Jay Power 2, Aiden Gallagher, Leon Power. FINNART 3, SCOTLAND B.C. 1. Preston Jay Power, Declan Clark, Leon Power. FINNART 2, DRUMSGARD 2. Leon Power 2. FINNART C 2, SCOTLAND B.C. 2. Aidan Sinclair, David McHarg. FINNART 0, DRUMSAGARD 2. FINNART 2, MEARNS 0. Callum Blair,Aiden Sinclair. FINNART 0, CAMBUSLANG 2. PHASE THREE. FINNART A 3, MEARNS 0. Aiden Coll, Zach Fenwick, Jack Marr. FINNART 2, NGU MILAN 0. Zach Fenwick, Aiden Coll. FINNART 3, CAMBUSLANG 1. Jack Marr, Zach Fenwick 2. FINNART 1. SCOTLAND B.C. 2. Aiden Coll. FINNART B 3, SCOTLAND B.C. 3. Declan Clark, Preston Jay Power 2. FINNART 7, PALACE PARK 3. Declan Clark 3, Kris Watson 3, Leon Power. FINNART 3, SCOTLAND B.C. 3. Preston Jay Power 2, Declan Clark. FINNART 5, DRUMSAGARD 5. Preston Jay Power 2, Kris Watson 2, Declan Clark. FINNART C 3, PALACE PARK 1. David McHarg 3. FINNART 5, SHETTLESTON 0. David McHarg 3, Jay R Brown, Aiden Sinclair. FINNART 0, DRUMSAGARD 2. FINNART 5, WESTERCOMMON 0. David McHarg 3, Dylan Haining, Aiden Sinclair. Well done to all the youngsters and their hard-working, voluntary

coaches who are involved with Teams A, B, and C. FINNART STAR AMS 4, OBAN SAINTS 1. GREAT result against last season’s league winners. Ben Mills and Jason McArthur gave them a 2-0 interval lead. Jason McArthur was upended for a penalty kick which was converted by Andy Robertson. A second spot- kick was awarded after Stevie Wilson was fouled. Robertson scored again. Oban hit a late consolation. Man of the Match - Gareth May. FINNART 2, NEW STEVENSTON 0. 1999 age group went top of the league at Glasgow Green. Man of the Match Ryan Martin scored either side of the interval. DRUMSAGARD 3, FINNART 1. 2000 team deserved a better outcome. Drummy were more clinical in front of goal. Scorer: Ryan Madden. Man of Match - Eoghan Kenny. FINNART 1, HILLWOOD 2. 2003’splayed well. Scorer: Harvey Mullen. Man of the Match split between Kevin Cadder and Harris Smith. FINNART 2, CAMBUSLANG 3. GOALS from Liam McLaughlin and Man of the Match Ryan Cadder. FINNART 2, PARK VILLA 1. GOALS from Guy Bullock and Greg McCluskey. Man of the Match Jon Lyon. FINNART 2004’s 2, HAMILTON 6. FINNART 2004’s 2, CELTIC 4. BIG THANK-YOU TO EVERY TEAM/CLUB WHO HAS FEATURED IN OUR SPORTS PAGES DURING 2014. REPORTS MUST BE WITH ME BY A MONDAY AFTERNOON. HAPPY NEW YEAR - TOM SCOTT.

A YEAR OF SPORTING SUCCESS

To the Genn Editor, More great coverage (Issue 143) for our team and also Finnart in general. Your Sports Editor does a

great job in promoting East/ North sport, also our club, and must take much of the credit for the recognition we receive.

We can’t thank you enough, Tom. Keep up the good work. Jamie McGowan, Finnart Under-15 Coach.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36 Eastbank Academy-based GLASGOW CITY Basketball Club, having already clinched Group A in the Regional League (West), won the West of Scotland Under-12 Development League championship. In a subsequent follow-up, working under their astute coach Andy Sinclair, eight GCBC stars won silver medals from the Under-12 (boys) National Challenge at Lagoon

It is a condition of acceptance of advertisement orders that the proprietors of this newspaper do not guarantee the insertion of any particular specified dates or at all,

although every effort will be made to meet the wishes of advertisers. The proprietors reserve the right to alter or reclassify any advertisement to conform with the policy of the

paper. These regulations expressly prohibit advertising which claims that a trader has been endorsed or authorised by a body when they have not and

prohibits the use of editorial content to promote a product when the trader has paid for the promotion without stating that it is an advertisement. Claims that a trader is ceasing

GENN SPORT FEEDBACK

Leisure Centre, Paisley. BOWLING news has seldom been out of our sports pages, and I must acknowledge the excellent contributions made by Ian Colligan, at Shettleston, plus Garrowhill pair Alex Morrison and Phil Porter. FOXLEY celebrated their Centenary year and played for a trophy - donated by Glasgow City Council - against hosts Cardonald Bowling Club, who also reached 100 years.

trading or moving when that is not the case and false claims (or creating the impression) the trader is not acting in the course of a business are also prohibited.

Cardonald won an excellent Saturday afternoon match by 30 shots. BILLY DAVIDSON made Garrowhill history by winning the club’s three major singles’ competitions – four trophies overall - and LAURA WELSH was crowned Ladies’ champion yet again. GARROWHILL were also honoured to host finals organised by the Monklands Bowling Association, who reached their 100th birthday this year.

GENN Glasgow East and North News

GENN

WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY NEW YEAR

YEAR OF LOCAL SPORTING SUCCESS

WHAT a record-breaking year 2014 was for local sport – in more ways than one! Glasgow hosted the Commonwealth Games, and huge crowds witnessed not only a record medals-haul for Scotland, but also one of the best-ever organised events. WELLHOUSE A.F.C., holders of the Fosters Scottish Amateur Cup, were beaten 2-1 by Glasgow Harp in a Quarter-Final replay at Greenfield. They bounced back in style by winning the League Cup, and M and M Trophy, before missing out on a domestic treble (Cinema Cup) against Colville Park. Unbeaten BROOMHOUSE F.C. bowed out of the Greater Glasgow Premier A.F.L. by claiming the Division 3 title - after previously winning Division 4. ‘House also won the Bobby Thomson Challenge Cup for a second consecutive year. In August, the East End club retained the East Kilbride Y.M. Invitation Tournament trophy, and are currently enjoying a good campaign in the Caledonian Am-

ateur Football League. POSTAL UNITED won promotion to the Fosters Central Scottish Premier Division in their first season at that level after having arrived with two championships from the Scottish Amateur Football League in the bag. GLASGOW CITY F.C. again showed they are top of the class in Women’s football north of the border - clinching an 8th successive SWPL title in their third consecutive domestic treble. City will also play in the UEFA Champions League Quarter-Finals - against French opposition – next March. TOWER HEARTS narrowly failed to edge out eventual Under-21 Premier Division champions, Campsie Black Watch, in the LSK Supplies West of Scotland Youth League, but won the Only Sport Golden Goals Cup. CRANHILL UNITED, in only their third competitive season, reached the Fosters Scottish Sunday Trophy, but lost 1-0 against former holders Harvester A.F.C. at Livingston. Cranhill won their own

PLAYERS WANTED

GOALKEEPERS at Boys’ Club, Amateur or Junior Football level for specialist winter coaching sessions under floodlights at New Petershill Park. To pre-register, please call 07403452960. POSTAL United A.F.C. seeking an experienced goalkeeper. Call 07808295854. RANGERS SABC seek players born 2003. Phone 0796216066. SHETTLESTON Ladies F.C. require players aged 16 plus. Call 07799885217. SUNDAY Central A.F.L. require players or clubs to enter competitive Over-35 League. Games to be played every second Friday. Call 07760995912. CELTIC B.C. looking for new

players, including a goalkeeper, in a squad which has moved into 11-a- side football. Games on a Sunday morning. Contact 07432479135. PARTICK Thistle Ladies are recruiting players for all positions. Call 0141 579 1971. NEW Amateur football seeking players for Sunday football. Contact 07984743106. PETERSHILL B.C. 2001 require players (all positions). Call 07595947196. ARSENAL B.C. Under-21 require an experienced goalkeeper for Saturday afternoon football. Call Davie Cartwright on 07508695785. SOUTH CAMLACHIE under-19s seek a goalkeeper. Telephone 07886910913.

GAMES WANTED

GLASGOW Girls F.C. Development Squad need friendlies

up to February, 2015. Contact 07791116196.

GARROWHILL - Bowling Club Competition Winners and GBA Rink Winners 2014. Photograph kindly taken and supplied to GENN Sport by Mr Philip Porter.

pre-season tourney against Glasgow Rovers, who earlier defeated Springhall Spartans in their Invitation Consolation Trophy final. FINNART Under-14 team won the Blackpool Plate - a year after being successful at the main tournament- and finished thirdtop of the Glasgow and District

YouthFootball League. ST ROCH appointed Andy Cameron (ex-Blochairn Star) as their new manager, and PETERSHILL said farewell to co-boss Scott Smith after four seasons at Springburn. Paul Kelly (ex-Milngavie Wanderers) took over.

AMATEUR CUP

FOSTERS Scottish Amateur Cup games after Christmas are: Fifth Round - Saturday,

January 10, 2015. Sixth Round - Saturday, February 7, 2015.

McCRONE MOVE SPEEDY Shettleston winger Ryan McCrone played his final game for the club in their 1-0 Scottish Junior Cup victory against Neilston at Greenfield Park, prior to his planned move to Australia.

* Shettleston Juniors Kids Coaching Academy has expanded from Sunday afternoons to evening sessions down at the Greenfield Football Centre. Check with the Shettleston Social Club Reception Desk.

SOCCER FESTIVAL

SIX age groups are expected to participate in next year’s Soccer 7s Festival at St James’ Parks and Ferguslie Sports Complex. Applications are also being taken for the Glasgow City Cup tournament.

Check their website for more details. * Youth groups across the country will receive 10,000 free tickets to attend next year’s Scotland v Gibraltar International clash at Hampden Park.

First-season Peasy defender Jordan Chisholm won three club Player of the Year awards, while goalkeeper Jordan Brown was named St Roch’s top player. SHETTLESTON and VALE OF CLYDE both celebrated promotion in their respective junior football divisions.

ASHFIELD and GLASGOW PERTHSHIRE went in the opposite direction following backto-back relegation campaigns. GLASGOW Phoenix Touch-Rugby Club had their first competitive season, and went on to finish runners-up in Division 3. CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

CROOKSY RETURN

FORMER Vale of Clyde and Shettleston central defender John Crooks is back in junior football. The one-time Tin Pail boss, who left Glasgow Harp A.F.C.

after they won the Caledonian Amateur Football League title and reached the Fosters Scottish Cup Semi-Finals last season, has been appointed assistant manager at Neilston.

FRIENDLY DEFEAT SYFA West Region Under-17 select were defeated 2-1 by the National squad in a friendly at Glasgow Green. The Region’s Under-19 squad will feature four local players Daniel Raza and Kal McNaught (Rangers SABC), Michael

McSwiggan (Glasgow Thistle), and Kane O’Neil (Arsenal B.C.) * SYFA National Office at Hampden Park will close on Tuesday, December 23 (3pm), and re-open after the festive break at 10am on Monday, January 5, 2015.

SUNDAY DATES

AMATEUR clubs resume their campaign in the Fosters Scottish Sunday Trophy with Fifth Round pairings

on January 11, 2015. The Sixth Round is scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2015.

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