The Wee County News - Issue 853

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Friday 9.12.11 Issue 853

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Photograph by Jim Hensby Clackmannanshire Bridge closed to high sided vehicles as the Wee County went to print

By Alison Mann

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chools across Clackmannanshire closed at noon yesterday as gale force winds battered the area after a week of harsh conditions in the county. The closures occurred to protect pupil safety after the Met Office issued warnings that 90-100mph gales would hit Clackmannanshire by 3pm. Keith Brown, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane and Transport Minister for Scotland issued warnings that conditions could quickly become dangerous and drivers should avoid travelling unless necessary.

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This followed the issue of a red alert by the Met Office which warned of storm force winds throughout Thursday (December 8). Forth Valley College closed at noon because of the gusts and trains to and from Alloa to Edinburgh suffered severe delays and cancellations. Clackmannan Primary also closed at 11am after the wind caused damage to the roof. As the paper went to print, there was flooding on the A908 between Devonside and Fishcross on both carriageways. There as also flooding on the Clackmannan to Forest Mill road which was passable with care.

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Access to the Wee County was also disrupted for motorists as the Clackmannan Bridge was closed to high sided vehicles. Utility companies had also put contingency plans in place through fears there may be power outages caused by the storm. Assistant Chief Constable Allan Moffat, Central Scotland Police, said: “The advice for motorists across the Central belt of Scotland is to avoid travel as the severe weather moves across the country from West to East starting around noon on the west side of the country. This advice is not given lightly but is based on the

clearest information yet from weather forecasters that there will be high winds with gusts of up to 90 miles per hour. “The time frame for these exceptional conditions is between noon and 6pm and I am being given clear information that a wide area of Scotland will be affected. People could be putting themselves at considerable risk by travelling in these conditions. “We are receiving continuous updates from the Met Office advising of severe weather which will impact across Scotland. “The forecast for such extreme

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weecounty We can send your weecounty LETTERS In your feelings when it weecounty www.flowersbyarrangement.net arrangement matters most. this week We can send your Give someone

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Friday 9.12.11

Family Announcements District News

P2

P16

What’s on in your Wee County

Entertainment

P20

Including Q’s Views, puzzles with crossword compeition, pet of the fortnight and those dodgy parking pics!

Lifestyle P21 Hair length advise

Recruitment P22-23 Services P24 Looking for a plumber, builder, roofer in your area, check out what the weecounty services has to offer

Christmas Lifestyle

P25

Tips for property buys.

Motoring

P26 - 30

Fixing your beloved car, or flogging your old run around, have a read at the weecounty motoring for some tips and hints

weecounty Sport

P31 - 36

weecounty Contacts NEW ADDRESS: 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG

Pop in and see us at our new office!

Advertising & Bookings 01259 404006 sales@hubpublishing.co.uk

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Dear weecounty, I panicked a bit after I found out there was to be snow in Alloa this week as I had such a dreadful time last year. I slipped and hurt my leg so it meant I was housebound for quite a while. This left me Quality Handmade Arrangements fearful this year would be the same. I was glad to see, at least for now, the roads Order before 2pm for Same Day Service were gritted and I didn’t have too much trouble getting about. he weecounty news has teamed up Local Reliable Company I hope this keeps up if the snow hits again. with Flowers by Arrangement to Quality Handmade Arrangements bring you a competition to give someone Margaret Brown, Alloa Orderabefore forofSame special beautiful2pm bunch flowersDay everyService

the giftwhen of it feelings Flowers matters most. T

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Flowers around Local Reliable Company the corner or Flowers around corner or around the world, the around the world, from a single rose from a single rose a magnificent to a magnificent tobouquet. Dear weecounty, I noticed on-line about the Big Give, it’s a fund bouquet. that will double any donations given to charity Dear weecounty, I really can’t believe the weather in Clackmannanshire this week. First terrible flooding which was quite scary, then the snow came and struck panic through everyone. I hope it all calms down soon. George Barbour, Alloa

for a week. It’s a really great idea and I think it’ll make people give to charity, especially since it’s Christmas time. A lot of charities are included in the scheme so people can help any cause they feel close too. Mrs Littlejohn, Alva

month.

We are excepting nominations from readers who think someone deserves a little treat. It could be that they’ve overcome illness, are having a special birthday or are just a special person that deserves some recognition. Whatever the reason, let us know and we’ll pick one winner who will receive some flowers. Send your nominations, plus your name, address and telephone number to: weecounty Flower Competition, The Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG. 13,weecounty@hubpublishing.co.uk Mill Street, Alloa, 87-89, Stirling Street, Alva, Email: Facebook: Clacks, FK10 1DT Clacks, FK12 5ED post your nominations on the Wee County News facebook page.

01259 723 988 Tel: 01259 760 037 13, Mill Street, Tel: Alloa, 87-89, Stirling Street, Alva, Nominations for this month will close on December 23rd and a winner will be announced on December 30th. The editors decision is final. Clacks, FK10 1DT Clacks, FK12 5ED

Tel: 01259 723 988 Tel: 01259 760 037

Dear weecounty, The sudden snowy weather was quite a shock this week. I had been hoping it wouldn’t arrive this year and we’d get off lightly. I am very pleased, however, that it is now away and won’t cause too much disruption. Hope it doesn’t come back. Miss Keane, Alloa BIRTHDAYS

Happy belated birthday Derek Better late than never Love Dawn, John, Matthew & Samantha

Congratulations to Maggie Garbutt who won a bouquet of flowers from Flowers by Arrangement. Maggie was nominated to receive the flowers by her daughter, she is pictured here with Saeed, the Wee County’s local Interflora florist.

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Family Announcements ANNOUNCEMENTS

EVENSEN Recently passed away at Grimsby, Victor, aged 89. A good kind uncle. A Norwegian, a stranger to these shores, who fought with us, walked amongst us and was a good friend to many in the locality. Remembered always in our hearts.

RAMSAY Peacefully at Forth Valley Hospital on Tuesday 6th December 2011, Robert (Bob) aged 84 years.

Beloved husband of Sadie, a dearly loved dad of Sylvia and Ian and father-in-law of Ian and Irene. Also a much loved grandad and great grandpa of the family. Funeral service will be held at St Serfs Parish Church on Tuesday 13th December 2011 at 10.45am and thereafter to Falkirk Crematorium to which all family and friends are respectfully invited. Hillview Funeral Services on 01259 725999.

weecounty

WEATHER CAUSES CHAOS Continued from front page

Photos by Jim Hensby

Flag pole blown over at Alloa town hall Driver needs a helping hand with snow

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News Brief Tilli Hub plan

Tillicoultry residents are being invited to meetings to discuss feedback to Clackmannanshire Council’s plans to create a community hub in Tillicoultry. The two feedback sessions will be held on Tuesday December 13 at Tillicoultry Community Centre from noon-2pm and later from 6-8pm. The proposals to redevelop the former Family Centre into a community hub, bringing together a number of services under one roof, were announced in June and a report on findings was published in September outlining the views of individuals and groups. The new hub would include a new modern library, Community Access Point (CAP) and rent office, services for early years and other groups previously using the Community Centre, plus meeting rooms and space for the community to run its own groups, clubs and activities. Tuesday’s feedback sessions will give the Council the opportunity give individuals and groups an update on the latest proposals.

Damage from last year weather means that it is probable that we will need to close some or all of the major bridges. This will inevitably cause disruption on major routes and have an impact on other road networks. “The predicted impact of the wind is such that it may cause structural damage and is a specific danger to high sided road vehicles. “I would ask the public to pay close attention to weather and road updates and act accordingly to the advice given. “I recognise that this is a significant statement however it is based upon the

premise of ensuring public safety and minimising the risk to road users in the affected areas.” Keith Brown MSP added: “The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room is closely monitoring developments as is Transport Scotland’s MultiAgency Response Team. “We are in regular contact with the Met Office, the police, operating companies, power suppliers and other authorities and agencies to ensure everything that can be done is being done. “Transport Scotland have also held a separate conference call with the

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‘Extreme Weather Action Team’ to discuss likely impact on the rail network where one of the main threats is debris being blown onto the railway and speed restrictions after the morning rush hour which will have an impact on timetables. “Potentially many of our main road bridges could be closed at some point. According to the Met Office the worst period will be from 3-6pm and they are confident that wind speeds will exceed 75 mph. They have issued a red alert, which suggest speeds could even exceed 90 mph. As well as possible bridge closures we need to prepare for blown over vehicles and trees.” He also asked that people leave work early if possible as the rush out traffic was predicted to be extremely congested. The gale force winds ended a week of harsh weather for the Wee County. Last week the area suffered from severe flooding and road closures. Following that, on Sunday night snow hit the county, causing ice on the roads and travel chaos. The snow had just melted when transport bosses warned of the gale force winds set to hit Clackmannanshire.

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Friday 9.12.11

Vandals damage skylights at Alva pool

By Alison Mann

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ampaigners who worked so hard to save the Alva pool for local people have been left disappointed at vandals who damaged the property. Ochil Leisure Enterprises (OLE) who now own the pool were informed by builders that several sky lights on the building had been damaged by vandals. Central Scotland police are now appealing for information following the act of vandalism. The incident happened at 6.30pm on Monday, November 28. Police believe a group of youths who had congregated outside the pool may have been responsible and members of the public have been encouraged to get in touch

with the force if they have any information. Community Constables Chris Smith and David Armitage can be contacted on 01259 723255 with any information. This type of incident is just what OLE are trying to combat by giving young people in the area a place to swim and meet. OLE recognise the Clackmannanshire CHP Heath and Wellbeing Profile (2010) shows a youth offending rage higher than the national average. The found the Clackmannanshire Single Outcome Agreement of 2008/2009 also shows less than 15% of residents think facilities for children and young people are “good”.

From inception OLE has been committed to the ambition to contribute to the resolution of these issues by providing sports activities, promoting the involvement of the community in running the complex and by improving the facilities for local residents. They were sensationally sold the pool by Clackmannanshire Council for the sum of £1 last month and since then have been approaching small and medium sized local businesses to tender for work, including the upgrading of facilities within the pool complex. A spokesman for the group said: “One example is the idea of developing a cafe for the complex and other areas for improvement will include the electrical systems,

boilers and changing rooms. “Businesses that wish to pursue opportunities with OLE are encouraged to make contact and discuss plans.” “OLE is also working with a social enterprise that could see disadvantaged people get a break in life and their first step on the career ladder.” The new complex will be run by the community so they need volunteers. The group are currently developing a career development strategy for volunteers who will be given access to training. Groups, organisations and individuals wishing to use the facilities when the reopen in spring 2012 should visit the OLE website at ochilleisureenterprises.org.uk

Tales of life on Alloa Inch By Alison Mann

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new DVD sheds light on the fascinating tales of a life on Alloa Inch farm. Alloa Inch Is a 100 acre island on the River Forth near Alloa and has always intrigued locals. The new DVD came about after Betty MacGregor, who lived on the island was asked to do presentations to local groups about her life there. She first compiled and narrated the story in September 1999. Charles McLennan, Newmills assisted her and made all of the slides and helped put the story together.

Two weeks before Betty died on December 9, 2001, Charles helped her make a voice recording on the story which synchronised with the slides. Since then, over 150 presentations of the slide show have been shown across Central Scotland. In summer of this year Charles and Betty’s daughter Margaret used the recording and slides to make a DVD and this quality production is now available to buy. It is available at “The Gallery” at G.R. McFarlane, Watchmaker and Jewllers, 41 Mill Street, Alloa.

and follow the link for the Group Application Form. Forms can also be picked up at local libraries. Completed forms should be returned to OLE before December 31. The group also revealed they will be receiving a grant from RBS Community Force, for which local people voted. The group stated: “OLE would like to thank everyone that voted for us on RBS Community Force website because we have been awarded funds towards helping to run the pool complex as a community venture. “Thanks again to everyone that voted and got others to vote for OLE. OLE would like to thank the local branch of RBS for their support.”

Do you have a complaint against this newspaper? If you have a complaint about any item in this newspaper which concerns inaccuracy, harassment, intrusion or discrimination, write to our editor about it. If you remain dissatisfied please contact the Press Complaints Commission - an independent organisation established to uphold an editorial Code of Practise for the Press. This nespaper will abide by their decision.

Press Complaints Commission 1 Salisbury Square London EC4Y 8AE

Tel: 0171 353 1248 Fax: 0171 353 8355

weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

Mountain Rescue team benefit from golf challenge

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ogan Leisure Ltd has donated thousands of pounds to Ochil Mountain Rescue after organising a golf challenge. The annual golf challenge raised £5,700 which will be split between Ochil Mountain Rescue and Yorkhill Family House. The golf challenge was held on July 22 and saw 147 golfers take part in good weather at the Braehead Golf Club. The Caledonian Marts Perpetual Trophy was won by Stephen McIntyre, Gary and Grant McIntyre and Stephen Shepherd with a record score of 49.3. Prizes for nearest the pin award were awarded to David Stewart and Gary McIntyre with Craig McLachlan winning the prize for the longest drive. The enjoyable event, which took the format of Texas Scramble was sponsored by Alexander (Stirling) and

Co and Beatsons Building Supplies. The Mountain Rescue team stated : “Naturally The Ochils Mountain Rescue Team would like to express their sincere thanks to Mr Logan, the sponsors and participants on the day for their generosity. “The Ochils Mountain Rescue Team is a voluntary organisation which provides an invaluable community service. Every year we save lives in both upland and lowland areas and the team is ready for deployment by the police laterally every day of the year.” The team also saw the retirement of Brian Jamieson this month. Brian has given outstanding service to Ochils Mountain Rescue Team for almost 40 years, joining just one year after the team formed. Brian, Blairlogie has literally seen it all in his time with the

team and has participated in countless search and rescue emergencies both locally and around Scotland. Although Brian is hanging up his boots he fully intends to continue his support of the team with his experience and expertise in the future. All team members would like to wish Brian

UNICEF award at Fishcross Picture by Jim Hensby

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upils at Fishcross primary have been awarded a UNICEF Level 1 Rights Respecting School status. The school spent a year working towards the award and a range of learning and teaching activities have been undertaken to raise awareness of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which is at the heart of the award. The award success came after an assessment in September by Bruce Wilkinson, education officer

for UNICEF in Scotland. A different ‘right’ was assigned to each month of the year with all classes working on associated activities, such as a shoebox appeal and participation in a Mary’s Meals initiative which saw pupils donating backpacks filled with stationery for children in Africa. Presenting the award certificate to pupils from P1 to P7, Councillor George Matchett, Inclusion portfolio holder, said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity

to recognise the school’s achievement, which is reward for a tremendous effort by the staff and pupils. “National research has shown that the Rights Respecting Schools award can benefit children in a number of ways, including improving their overall wellbeing, improving academic performance and enabling children to improve personal relationships. It has also helped to promote and encourage positive behaviour.”

a ford farewell and also thank his wife Sue for the unwavering support she has given Brian over the decades of his outstanding voluntary contribution to the community. ABOVE: Ally Logan and family presenting cheque to Team Leader Kevin Mitchell. RIGHT: Brian being presented with a Quaich from left to right: Team Leader Kevin Mitchell : Brian : Depute Team Leader Gordon Bruce.

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Friday 9.12.11

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new veterans branch could be set up in Clackmannanshire and local ex-servicemen and women were given a chance to voice their opinion. Provost Derek Stewart issued the invitation to veterans from all forces and services to attend an initial meeting on Thursday, December 8. The Royal British Legion and the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders have already pledged their involvement and support for establishing a new branch and both organisations will be represented at Thursday’s meeting. Provost Stewart explained, “There is a lot of help and support available for veterans and their families in Clackmannanshire, but without a branch it is difficult to ensure they access that support. It’s almost 30 years since the British Legion in Alloa and Alva closed and we want to

get a committee and a constitution made to take this forward and open a new branch that will take in the whole of Clackmannanshire.” One veteran backing the campaign for a new branch is 72-year-old Henry McLelland from Alloa, who served with the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers (REME) and saw active service in Cyprus and Hong Kong. He said: “It was a great disappointment when the Alloa branch of the British Legion closed. “I have been thinking about setting up a local branch for some time and therefore I am delighted that these new efforts are being made. “A new branch would give us a voice at events such as the annual Remembrance Day Parade in November and the Armed Forces Day in June.”

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ee County residents are being given the chance to hit the slopes for free at the Tillicoultry ski centre. Firpark Ski Centre is holding a free open day on Sunday, December 11 and will offer free taster sessions in skiing and snowboarding. The taster sessions will each last 20 minutes and be supervised by the Council’s expert instructors. The open day starts at 12 noon and runs until 6pm and is open to all ages and all levels of experience. Children under nine years of age must be accompanied by an adult to register. All participants should wear outdoor clothing and gloves Councillor Eddie Carrick, Sustainability Portfolio Holder, said: “Firpark Ski Centre is an ideal venue for a fantastic family day out and this open day is the perfect opportunity to find your ski-legs.” The event will also be a chance to find out more about the Council’s Winter Ski Programme which includes classes and ski schools for all levels and abilities. Firpark’s 120m dry ski slope is open all year round except main public holidays. Monday to Friday 9am to 10pm and 9am to 8pm on weekends. For more information, contact Firpark Ski Centre on tel: 01259 751772.

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weecounty Top author visits Sunnyside

By Alison Mann

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unnyside primary pupils were given a literary treat as a top author visited the school to give advice on writing. Scottish award-winning children’s author Barry Hutchison visited the school on Moday, December 5 to give pupils advice on creative writing, sign copies of his books and read from his latest novel. The invitation was issued by the school after one of the Primary seven classes had been enthralled by the first two books in the author’s Invisible Fiends horror series. The children were gripped by the author’s nail-biting stories and characters like Mr Mumbles and Raggy Maggie in the books which have been

written for children aged nine and over. Described as Harry Potter meets Nightmare on Elm Street, the six Invisible Fiends books are part of an original, darkly funny and shiverinducing new horror series about a 12-year-old boy’s and others imaginary friends from childhood who come to life with a vengeance. Councillor George Matchett, portfolio holder for Inclusion said: “Sunnyside has always been very keen to instil an enthusiasm for reading in the pupils. “Barry Hutchison has an enviable expertise in descriptive writing and we are very grateful that he was able to come along and show the pupils how they can use his techniques in their own writing. You never know, somewhere in Sunnyside P7H, there may now be a future best-seller.”

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Photographs by Jim Hensby

CROSSWORD COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to John McGuire, Kincardine who won a meal LAST WEEKS CROSSWORD ANSWERS for two at the Bridge Inn in our crossword competition last week. Send in your completed crosswords alongside your name, address and telephone number to be in with a chance of winning this week’s meal for two. SEE PAGE 20

weecounty CURVES CHRISTMAS Learning engagement award for FVC COUNTDOWN..Lynn’s Diary F 8

Friday 9.12.11

Day 1 (Wednesday) Went along in the evening at 5pm to meet with the lovely Georgina who took me through the correct ways to use the equipment. What a lovely lady, she made me feel very welcome and introduced me to the other members who were there. One lady who did the circuit burnt over 700 calories, oh my goodness! Day 2 (Thursday) Woke this morning expecting to feel a little bit of muscle stiffness, but no! I am ok, they did say the cool down after the circuit helps. Again 5pm beckons and here I go again, this time I have to remember how I was taught to use the machines to get the best out of the workout. Great workout tonight I do feel that this will tone up the bits that need toned. (too many to mention!) Day 3 (Friday) A little bit tired today but it is Friday so weekend just around the corner, I cannot believe I can’t go to the gym tonight as am babysitting my little niece. She is nearly two so I can imagine I will work pretty hard looking after her. Day 4 (Saturday) Curves closed today so a

nice wee walk along the cycle track should help. Wee glass of wine tonight as a treat for my efforts this week so far -any excuse. Day 5 (Sunday) Day of Rest Day 6 (Monday) One hour using my Wii fit, started at 7am, am I mad? Then off to work. 5pm beckons again and off to Curves for my 3rd session, great workout tonight really enjoyed it, feeling the benefits already have more energy and enthusiasm. If this is after three sessions what will I be like for that little black dress? Day 7 (Tuesday) Wii fit at 7am again, boxing this time. I am so glad no one can see me jumping around my sitting room. 5pm again and off to my workout , it was quiet tonight - come on ladies it’s just a little bit cold but the workout warms you up and you feel so much better by the time you finish. One lady tonight lost 7lb on her weigh in, 7lb well done! So come on ladies get the trainers out and come and join me at Curves Unit 5, Millar Court, Whins Road Alloa, Telephone 01259 210011

orth Valley College has been praised at a prestigious awards ceremony for their achievements. The collage received two awards at Scotland’s Colleges Annual Awards 2011 on Wednesday, November 30. These prestigious awards – now in their 12th year – celebrate the outstanding achievements of colleges across the country. The College won the esteemed ‘Learner Engagement’ award and also received a ‘highly commended’ accolade in the ‘Professional Learning and Enhancement’ category. The prizes were presented by television personality Sally Magnusson at a glittering ceremony at Glasgow’s Radisson Blu Hotel where colleges battled it out in a wide range of categories. However despite fierce competition, Forth Valley College was recognised in the ‘Learner Engagement’ category, sponsored by Wesleyan Financial Services, for their outstanding achievement of becoming Scotland’s first Fairtrade College through a project lead by a partnership of students and staff. Forth Valley College and its Student Union were officially awarded the Fairtrade Status in March 2011. The inspiration behind their bid to become a Fairtrade

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College stemmed from support that learners and staff in the Department of Business were providing for a college in Malawi. Learning about the way of life in Malawi and the challenges faced by families struggling to afford an education for their children led to a desire to do more to help. This prompted the team to set up a college wide Fairtrade Steering Group, including the Student Union President and Vice-President. This group then worked with learners and staff across the College to embed a Fairtrade ethos through numerous events and campaigns. In particular, learners and staff from the Department of Access and Progression teamed up with the Business Department team to embrace the challenge and embarked on a wide range of activity to promote the Fairtrade message. In order to achieve the

Fairtrade Status, the College also produced a Fairtrade policy, demonstrated healthy sales of Fairtrade products and built Fairtrade into the broader curriculum at every level and on every campus. Tracy Cordiner from the Royal Bank of Scotland’s “We’re in the Business” initiative, supported learner engagement in the Fairtrade campaign through workshops delivered to learners in the Business Department. Support was also received from numerous community and national organisations with an interest in Fairtrade, including Alloa Town Centre Business Improvement District Team, the Cooperative Society, Scotmid, local schools and churches, the Cooperative Education Scotland Trust and the Fairtrade Forum in Edinburgh. Iris Aitchison, Depute Head of the College’s Business

Department who led on the College’s efforts to gain Fairtrade Status said: “I am thrilled that Forth Valley College has been recognised by Scotland’s Colleges for our continued commitment to Fairtrade. “Achievement of the status has created numerous excellent opportunities for learners to engage actively in enhancing the life and work of the college, develop social responsibility and a deeper knowledge and understanding of issues related to global citizenship, equality and diversity and environmental and economic sustainability.” It was an enthusiasm for active learning that also gained the College a highly commended award in ‘Professional Learning and Enhancement’. Encouraged by their lecturers, learners on the HND Computing: Software Development taught themselves how to use two pieces of specialised software used by computer games developers in order to complete a group project. The learners then developed skills in transferring knowledge by not only demonstrating the software to their fellow classmates and lecturers but also to computing lecturers nationally through a webinar and a workshop at Scotland’s Colleges Computing National Conference in June 2011.

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weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

Tullibody pensioners enjoy festive feast

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By Alison Mann

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ee County pensioners were given a tasty meal and sound advice on how to keep warm this winter. The Tullibody Healthy Living Partnership treated almost 200 local pensioners to a healthy and hearty Christmas dinner on December 1 and 2. They feasted on a traditional meal of homemade lentil soup and steak pie and vegetables during the event, which is now in its third year. Food was served by the dedicated Fruit Barra volunteers and helped to convey the important message that eating hot food and vegetables can help keep elderly people warm this winter. All attendees to the event were given a thermos mug to take home to ensure they can always have a hot drink at hand. This was possible through contributions from Debbie Ross and Community Food and Health Scotland. Ann Glennon, who has been a Tullibody Fruit Barra volunteer since it started four years ago said: “We talk to the pensioners that come and use the barra every week, and we have been surprised that some are concerned about the cost of keeping their house warm through the winter. “Our focus is to keep them eating plenty of hot healthy food and, alongside our local NHS community food worker Debbie Ross, we were able to provide them with hints

Lornshill Academy pupils perform for Tullibody pensioners. on what foods to stock up on with recipe ideas. The fruit barra already offers a home delivery service of fruit a veg to pensioners in our area, but in order to remind them to keep the hot drinks flowing when they feel cold, we wanted to give them a thermo mug to take home with them to help keep their hot drink, or hot soup warmer for longer” Representatives from the Older People’s Advice Service, Energy Saving Trust, Contact the Elderly, Door Stop Crime and Clackmannanshire Council’s Care and Repair team attended the event on both days to give advice on the services they provide. Pupils from Lornshill Academy also went along to

entertain the attendees. The whole event went well with all generations, from primary school kids, secondary school kids and the volunteers all working together to provide a pleasant and enjoyable event for local pensioners. One pensioner has already let the group know the benefit of the mug for her. Betty said: “I’ve only had this mug three days and already I’ve felt the benefit. I always have a wee bit of supper every night before I go to sleep, but by the time I have eaten my food, my cup of tea has gone cold. This mug is fantastic for keeping my night time cup of tea warmer for longer. Thanks very much girls.”

Wee County MSP backs new £30m fund to help youths find employment

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SP for Clackmannanshire & Dunblane, Keith Brown welcomed the news that Scotland will have a dedicated Youth Employment Minister and invest an extra £30million in young people. The funding will help Scotland’s youth back into training, work or education to secure a strong workforce of the future. Details of the Ministerial post and allocation of the £30m will be outlined before Parliament breaks for recess. Mr Brown said: “This is a fantastic announcement from the First Minister that will help get our 16-19 year olds

back into work, education or training. “While Scotland’s youth employment rate is higher than the rest of the UK, more needs to be done. “This money will really help young Scots – especially during this tough economic time. “Appointing a dedicated Youth Employment Minister shows how committed the SNP is to equipping all our young people the skills they need for life – and getting them into employment. “The Minister’s priority will be to promote skills and work for 16 to 24-year-olds and to ensure not a single school leaver becomes just an unemployment statistic. The

MSP for Clackmannanshire & Dunblane, Keith Brown SNP Government is securing a stronger workforce for the future.”

Councillor George Matchett and chair of Tullibody Healthy Living Partnership supported the volunteers

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lloa Optical Dispensary Smart Specs is offering customers the chance to win tickets to see Aladdin. From now until January 10, every customer buying a pair of spectacles will be entered into a free prize draw to win tickets to the panto. The winner will receive tickets for a family of four to see Aladdin at the Town Hall. With a fabulous range of frames, including designer brands such as D&G, Prada and Dior, there has never been a better time to refresh your specs. The High Street based store gives customers the choice to choose the best

Optical Dispensary 0845 5198 474 • WWW.ALLOASMARTSPECS.COM themselves on offering We supply an exciting wide range of top quality and designer frames quality spectacles at an prescription is your property so YOU decide Complete spectacles Your affordable price. where to buy and choose the best deal for you Spectacles from Smart Save £’s compared to internet / traditional opticians - get friendly and professional advice and support Specs start at £19 and from All our spectacles inlcude as standard Multi Anti include reflective reflective lensesMulti with hardAnti / anti scratch coatings. SINGLE VISION INCLUDING : ANTI REFLECTIVE OR HARD COATING lenses with hard/antiDESIGNER FRAMES FROM £45 dealAllon theirprescriptions spectacles, optician accepted scratch coating as standard. Bifocal lenses supplied from £35 Varifocal from £45 Prescriptions dispensed for adults of 16 after all your prescription shop also offers NHSThe vouchers accepted for ages 16+ who are not years plus and who are not registered registered designer blind or partiallyframes sighted is yourblind property sosighted you can or partially beautiful decide where to buy your lenses 45from High £95, Street, Bifocal Alloa FK10 1JF WITH THIS 0845 frames. from5198 £35474 and Varifocal ADVERT - Fri 9.00 to 5.30 Sat 9.00 - 5.00 When you shop with Smart Mon from£45. Specs you not only receive A one hour service can be great frames, you receive offered on some spectacles. service from a team of NHS vouchers accepted experts who can ensure you for ages 16+ who are not look and feel great. registered blind or partially Smart Specs pride sighted.

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Friday 9.12.11

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weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

... in Alloa Continental flair on the streets of Alloa By Alison Mann

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olives, baklava and fudge and craft items including clothing, candles and wooden carvings. One visitor, Mr Cowan said: “I just popped along to get something for lunch. I had some really good potatoes and ended up buying fudge and Olives. “I’ll probably bring the family down at the weekend so they can have a look. It’s great.”

asty food was the order of the day as the annual continental market hit Alloa town centre last week. The continental market kicked off on Thursday, December 1 and ended on Sunday having offered local people a plethora of food, crafts and treats. The market featured French cuisine, meats from across the globe, crepes,

weecounty photos See a picture you like in the weecounty? Get your copy from only £5! you can order photos from: 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG or telephone: 01259

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weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

ClacksMax project wins national award T

he project which strives to provide rural areas in Clackmannanshire with fast broadband has received an award. ClacksMax, an innovative EU funded council-led project designed to deliver one of the first high-speed broadband networks to rural areas with low population density anywhere in the UK, won an award at the national NextGen Challenge Awards for rural broadband, The ClacksMax model, introduced as a result of a new partnership between Clackmannanshire Council, Stirling Council, local business organisations and commercial supplier Briskona, was runner-up in the Innovative Funding category, missing out on the top prize by a single vote. However, the success is set to hasten the roll-out of fast rural broadband through ClacksMax, which delivers internet connection in a more economic and sustainable way, but still at a cost to end users comparable to other

broadband providers. Deputy Leader, Councillor Bobby McGill said: “It is very rewarding to receive recognition, at a national level, that what we are doing is innovative and creative and will benefit businesses and residents in Clackmannanshire and Stirling.” The two councils, and a number of business centres currently without broadband access, initially joined forces with technology partner Networks by Wireless and, following a successful pilot project which saw 3.5GHz WiMAX installations at council buildings, a bid for Scottish Government’s Rural Broadband Challenge funding was made by Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER Local Action Group. As one of only five projects to gain approval, this resulted in the councils being awarded £186,000 to develop the pilot project into a commercial service covering four high priority rural areas - Alloa West, Tillicoultry, Bandeath/ Throsk and Touch Estate in

Cambusbarron. Each area had been identified as either having businesses whose growth was being restricted on account of inadequate broadband, or communities who were similarly disadvantaged for educational, recreational and social use of high speed broadband. With previous experience of delivering cost-effective rural broadband using wireless technologies, Briskona, a company formed by a joint venture between Irish Wireless ISP, BriskNet and Eurona, a Spanish Telecoms company, was selected from more than 40 companies, from home and abroad, who had registered an interest in assisting the councils’ ambitions to provide an innovative solution to deliver high-speed broadband to rural areas within their boundaries. The ClacksMax model now developed is not only suitable to the Stirling and Clackmannanshire areas, but could be replicated to deliver

rural broadband in other low population density areas. Councillor McGill added, “By providing council buildings as strategic wireless base sites, we have developed a partnership model that combines local authority assets with commercial investment to the benefit of both business and domestic broadband users.

“Being wireless, ClacksMax avoids the heavy financial investment normally associated with laying fibre optic cable. It causes minimum infrastructure disruption and can be deployed very quickly and easily. “By providing access to council assets, we reduced the cost of service provision which, in turn, has

allowed Briskona to provide high-speed broadband at comparable rates to traditional suppliers. “Briskona realised the potential of this opportunity and their willingness to commit further investment has meant that everything achieved to date has been undertaken with no investment from the two councils.”

Alison Mann

Writing letters for human rights W

riting. I do it every day, writing about what’s happening across Clackmannanshire but very rarely in my working life do I write using the traditional pen and paper – other than to take notes. How many people regularly put pen to paper and write a letter? Not too many I would imagine. The Royal Mail deliver around 62 million letters every day – have you ever wondered how many of these are hand written? A hand written letter has a personalisation that just can’t be achieved by typing, be it to send a letter, a Facebook message or a Tweet. The reason I have chosen to harp on about the lost act of letter writing is because Amnesty International are running an interesting campaign at the moment.

They contacted me via e-mail, as so many people do these days, to high-light a campaign they are currently running. Although it’s communicated in the most high-tech way through e-mail, Facebook and Twitter, they

are asking people to use a quite ‘old fashioned’ means of activism. Amnesty International are asking people to hand-write letters to heads of state to highlight the plight of various political prisoners.

When I saw this I thought it was the most fantastic idea, the sight of hundreds of hand written letters sitting on dignitary desks. It would have such an impact, particularly in this day and age, when it is so easy to copy and paste a letter template and just send it off. The fact that people have taken the time to write a letter, write the address and stick on a stamp speaks

We are now in Alloa. Come and visit us at 38 Primrose Street

volumes. Amnesty are aiming to help lots of people who have been victimised and brushed aside by their governments. This is part of their ‘Write for Rights’ campaign which will see thousands of people write letters on December 10. For example, British activists are being asked to write to the Nigerian government to ask them to implement a housing policy for people who are at risk of forced evictions. More than 200,000 people in Port Harcourt’s waterfront communities may be evicted by force. Already thousands of families have been left

homeless and 12 protestors have been shot trying to save their homes. I’m not so naïve that I believe a simple hand written letter will save these people from eviction but I do think if it shocks the President into thinking about the policy it will be a wonderful thing. What do you think about hand written letters, do you think they could help in campaigning for human rights? Let me know via twitter. com/WeeCountyNews1, via Facebook at facebook.com/ weecountynews or by e-mail at Alison@hubpublishing. co.uk. Of course you could always write a letter!

HAVE YOUR SAY Do you have something you want to say, or something for Alison to talk about: alison@hubpublishing.co.uk

weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

Activ8 - bring festive cheer to Sauchie E

lderly members of the Sauchie community had an enjoyable day at the Activ8 Christmas lunch. Activ8 organised a Christmas party for local pensioners to enjoy, which saw many locals turning out to attend. The pensioners enjoyed food from a traditional Christmas menu including Steak pie – a firm favourite with the guests. Clackmannanshire

Provost, Derek Stewart was also invited along to the event to share in the festive spirit with locals. The Sauchie group organise activities throughout the year, including an internet cafĂŠ, 50s keep fit and a gym. The activities are all held in Sauchie Hall and information on classes can be found on the Clackmannanshire Council website.

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Friday 9.12.11

Town centre BID Christmas competitions A

lloa will be filled with festive cheer this month as the town centre BID put all their efforts into celebrating Christmas. The group have arranged for Santa Claus to take up residence at G R McFarlane Jewellers, Mill Street from December 8-10, 15-17 and 22-24. In the grotto, open from noon – 4pm Santa will meet children and listen to what they would like for Christmas. Visiting the grotto costs £5, which includes a photo and

Win a ride on Santa’s sleigh

SHOP LOCAL IN ALLOA THIS

gift. On December 17 Reindeer will be visiting Alloa and will pull Santa along in his sleigh. The reindeer will arrive at 10am and will take a procession through the town at 12noon. The Wee County News has teamed up with Alloa Town Centre BID to give one lucky reader the chance to join Santa on a Reindeer-led Sleigh ride on December 17. To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer this

question: Where is Santa’s grotto situated this year? Please send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG. Competition closes on Thursday, December 15 and the winner will be drawn at 12.30pm at the High Street before the procession. Normal competition rules apply, the editors decision is final.

The Town Centre BID are also running their annual Christmas Window Competition this year as part of their drive to promote Alloa as a vibrant place to shop. To enter businesses simply need to decorate their windows, take a picture and e-mail it to the BID office at Andrew@atcbid.com. The winner will be revealed on December 22. First prize is £250, second prize is £100 and third prize is £50.

Artist work on display at castle

For some it’s a joy, for others it’s a chore, but like it or not there is no avoiding the need to get stuck into the Christmas shopping at this time of year.

Santa’s Grotto

Reindeer & Sleigh

Children of all ages can let Santa know what they wish for this Christmas.

Santa’s Reindeer will arrive early on Saturday morning in preparation to pull Santa through the town at midday. Santa will be joined by Provost Derek Stewart.

Date: 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd & 24th Dec 2011 Location: Gordon McFarlane Jewellers, 41 Mill Street, Alloa. FK10 1DW Time: 12 noon – 4 pm Charge: £5.00 Includes photo with santa and a gift

Date: 17th Dec 2011 Location: High Street, Alloa Time: 10 am reindeer arriving, procession starts at 12 noon

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tirling Castle is set to play host to a new art exhibition which celebrates the work of Iona Leishman, the first ever artist-in-residence. The exhibition, ‘Sense of Place’, features around 80 paintings by local artist Iona Leishman and will run until December 31. Her works range from lush naturalistic impressions of the castle to dreamy washes of colour haunted by ethereal figures, all inspired by the history, iconic landscape and Kings and Queens who lived at the Castle. Gillian Macdonald. Executive Manager of Stirling Castle said: “This is the first time we have had an artist-in-residence at Stirling Castle. We are delighted to be able to host this exhibition of Iona’s work as part of our Christmas celebrations at the Castle and look forward to welcoming visitors during

the festive period.” The project was set up in collaboration with Kathleen O’Neill of Culture Matters, which specialises in the professional development of artists and educational and cultural organisations and sponsored by the Sterling Furniture Group, and Arts and Business Scotland who matched the company’s funding. Sterling Furniture’s managing director Gordon Mearns said: “Supporting the arts in this way is a first for Sterling Furniture, and we are delighted to provide assistance to enable Iona to capture the essence of Stirling Castle, a truly iconic landmark steeped in history.” The show is free to all visitors at Stirling Castle, and can be found in the Exhibition Room within the Nether Bailey complex, between the central castle buildings and the western ramparts.

weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

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1940s learning at Dollar Academy H

istory was brought to life for some at Dollar Academy this week, with pupils transported back in time to the forties. Class J2H have been reading Goodnight Mister Tom and learning about life during the Second World War. To make their learning experience more interesting, pupils came to school dressed as evacuees on Tuesday 29th November and experienced school lessons as they would have been in 1940. The children had fun making blots with dippy ink pens, reciting their times tables, learning to sew and

doing PT. Everyone brought in a packed lunch – jam sandwiches, homemade cakes, apples and carrots - all beautifully wrapped in greaseproof paper and stored in brown paper bags. Gas masks were carried everywhere and the cane sat menacingly on the piano. Miss Sally Horne, the class teacher and Assistant Head of Junior School commented: “Evacuee day was great fun. The children were very enthusiastic about this project and really entered into the spirit of the day. This was a great way for us to create a memorable lesson

to illustrate the reality of schooling during the Second World War.” Dollar Academy’s Prep, Junior and Senior schools are all located on a single

More police on our streets

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he Wee County’s MSP has hailed the SNP Government’s record in reducing crime and making the streets safer in Scotland’s communities. Keith Brown, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane has welcomed new figures which show the Scottish Government and local authorities have maintained 1000 more police on the streets. There are now 1,031 more police on the street than in 2007 and recorded crime is at a 35-year low. The SNP MSP believes the fact that crime and fear of crime being at record lows - regardless of UK Government cuts - is down to the increased police presence since 2007. He said: “I am proud to say that the SNP Government in Scotland has made fighting crime a key policy and the figures clearly state that we have

had some success but there is more to do. “Last year Scotland’s councils agreed with the SNP to keep 1000 more police on the streets and today’s figures show that has been achieved. “In the Central Scotland Police Force area, there are now 40 more police officers than in 2007 “We know how important it is to have bobbies on the beat and the

difference good policing can have in a community and working alongside councils, communities and of course the police forces in Scotland has made for a joined-up approach that has helped move Scotland forward. “There is however, no room for complacency and there are some areas in which we have to continue to focus our efforts, and that is precisely what we shall do.”

campus. The Junior school, for P6 & P7 pupils, is an ideal transition from primary to secondary school and a very popular entry point for Dollar applicants.

Naught or Nice? Santa will decide!

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anta visited the Sterling Furniture Garden Centre at the weekend and was delighted when these two bonny lassies sat on his knee and told him what they wanted for Christmas.

Martina Chalmers and Suzanne LLoyd joined in the fun at Santa’s visit to Sterling. He will be there for the next two weekends on Saturday and Sunday’s 1:00pm - 4:00pm.

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weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

What’s on in your weecounty Alloa Alloa Trefoil Guild: The Christmas lunch will take place in the Dunmar Hotel on Monday 12 December at 1pm. Please remember the secret santa. Sunday night dance: Old time, modern and sequence dance will be held in Alloa Town Hall from now until April 15 2011 from 7pm for 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Admission is £5. On December 18 J Kawalskie will be providing the music. Bring your own refreshments.

Alva The Cochrane Foundation: Beneficiaries Christmas gift will be paid out on Tuesday 13 December from 1.30pm until 4pm. The notice applies to persons who have been admitted onto the roll of beneficiaries on or before 31 October. Darby and Joan Club: Domino result – Mr W Emslie, 2 Mrs M Burt, consolation Mrs H Weir. Whist result – 1 lady Mrs M Fisher, consolation Mrs E Campbell. 1 gent Mr J Duncan, consolation Miss C Blair. New members welcome every Wednesday at 1.45pm.

Clackmannan Thrift Shop: The Thrift Shop run by Clackmannan Parish Chuch of Scotland in the Town Hall is only open two more Fridays before Christmas. Costume jewellery and Christmas items will be on sale as well as the excellent quality new-to-you clothes. Between 1.30pm to 3.30pm go along, have a browse, a cuppa with a mince pie and a chat. They are always looking for gents’, ladies’ and children’s clothing.

Coalsnaughton

Fruit Barra: The Coalsnaughton Fruit Barra is open in Coalsnaughton Village Hall from Monday to Friday, 10am until 5pm. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a cuppa at Coalsnaughton’s community cafe Society. If you have an hour or two to spare to help, please call into the hall. Telephone 01259 759099.

can be sent easily by post. The Museum is open at weekends until Christmas - Saturdays 11 - 1 and 2 - 4.30 and Sundays 2 - 4.30. Entry is free and there is still time to see this year’s exhibition on Farming.

Carers: Do you help to look after someone? Free Carer Information sessions start on Thursday 3 November in Menstrie Parish Church Hall at 1.30pm – 3.30pm. First session “Caring and Stress”. Either phone Ian on 07824 381280 for more information, or just come along. All carers welcome.

Dollar

Dollar History Society: The final meeting in 2011 of Dollar History Society will be held on Tuesday, 13 December. Our guest speaker will be a local resident, Mr. Roddy Hine, who will give his personal view of the events surrounding the handover of the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong to the People’s Republic of China in 1997. The meeting will be held as usual in Dollar Academy dining hall and will begin at 7.30pm. Annual subscriptions remain unchanged at £9 for individuals and £16 for couples. Visitors are very welcome and are asked to pay £2. Pupils and students can always come free of charge. Dollar Museum: The Museum shop has a great range of exclusive items which would make ideal Christmas gifts. Besides Christmas cards there are fridge magnets, coasters, key rings, mugs, tea towels and notepads. All are designed especially for Dollar Museum. The 2012 calendar has 12 colour photographs of local views and comes in a DVD-size box which, when open, sits on a desk or table. All these items

Scottish Country Dance Class: The classes take place in the hall each Wednesday from 8pm to 9.30pm for a 10 week session before Christmas. Go along and give it a try.

Menstrie

Coalsnaughton Burns Club: Cash bingo every Monday in the lounge. Contact 01259 750517. Eyes down at 8.15pm, finished by 9.45pm.

‘Senior Citizens’ Coffee Morning will take place in Dollar Academy Dining-Hall on Friday 16th December, 10-11.15. The Chamber Choir of the school will sing, coffee/tea and cakes will be available. Free entry. All welcome.’

History of Tullibody” and will welcome any visitors .

Fraser McEwan and Leanne Archibald married on 22 October 2011 at St James Church Dollar, reception followed at Solsgirth House Hotel.

Fishcross Wee County Walkers: Why not join in the free walks led by Wee County Walkers? Become fitter as you enjoy and easy interesting walk. No need to book. Meet us in the car park beside Cats’ Protection just before 2pm on Tuesday. Back in time to meet the children coming out of school. Walks are suitable for all ages and abilities. Find out about local history as we walk. Put on comfortable footwear, dress for the weather and enjoy. Short, safe walks open to everyone. For more information contact Jane on 01259 290316 or 07825 052677. Come on your own or bring a friend.

Kincardine Kincardine History Society: The next meeting is on Wednesday, 14th December at 7pm in the Community Centre. We look forward to Mrs Chris Calder’s presentation of “ The

Choir will present a Christmas message at the Morning Service, at 11 a.m. Kites Group and Creche meet at the same time. There will be a Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at 6.30 p.m. The Congregational Board meets on Monday at 7 p.m.

Tillicoultry Tillicoultry OAP: The Xmas party is being held on Monday 12 December at 2pm in Tillicoultry golf club. Memorial Thanksgiving Service: The service will take place at the Congragational Church on Sunday, December 11 at 7pm. The service will be taken by Peter McCool.

Muckhart Muckhart SWRI: Change of date for next meeting - would members please note that the December meal will now be held on 13 December at 7.00 for 7.30pm and not 20 December as given in the programme. Muckhart Quilters: The group meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the Coronation Hall from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Mavis 781473 or Sue 743226.

Sauchie Sauchie and Fishcross U F Church: Communion Services took place last Sunday. In the morning, Rev Graham Brown spoke on “Jesus the Light”. Ronnie Bingham read part of Isaiah chapter 9. The theme at the Evening Service was “Needing God’s Comfort”. Janet Doran read part of Isaiah chapter 40. The Women’s Association meets on Thursday at 2.15 p.m. when Ian McMillan will lead “Coffee and Carols.” The Choir Practice takes place at 7 p.m. There will be no Bible Study this week. The Friday Club for Kids (Leo Club) meets from 6 until 7.30 p.m. On Sunday the

Tullibody Tullibody Guild: The meeting on December 14 is the Guild’s Christmas buffet. Please note earlier time of 7pm. Tullibody Healthy Living: The Fruit Barra will be open on Thursday 22 December for all your Christmas orders.

Do you have an event you would like to publish in ‘whats on in your wee county’? Email the details to: weecounty@hubpublishing.co.uk or call: 01259 404006

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Friday 9.12.11

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Page 24

in the best newspaper terms we will become again, not only in once portfolio the County but in sales too. ts across our to us of new titles further developmen of readership are important with see the launch which will Our advertisers like to work time, old ones reappear. community we would and some also, and that this difficult economic during this the challenges that We believe provide the foundation will in the them to day basis. to appreciation trail-blazing stage Wee as we appreciate and face on a day the of a new history of businesses if you have something – long and honourable Remember, do get in contact help with us, please and share with you County News. nothing without the It share is to talk community. Our paper we are happy of the local to us going, news stories! journey. It’s going and support which keeps and your the in each us relationship informative, join news – is that Do have to deliver the paper itself – like the enabling us In the past, there may past. be fun. every week. that was the that exciting and issues but to think been some we would like Going forward,

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ulliallan Castle could be to a single force after Scottish policehome dismiss Kenny MacAsk ed Glasgow it was reveale and Edinburill d this week. gh Current nationa ly being used as the l police training Tullialla academ n y, the whole is ideally situated cessible of Scotland, and to service in all is Plans for directions of very actravel. a single service have already police and fire nounce been d in the Scottish anbut the Justice Parliam Secreta ent that the ry has Scottish at Tullialla Police Collegehinted headqu n could be home arters. to the MacAsk headqu ill believes the arters should new in Edinbur not be gh or Glasgow based tion of this is evident . IndicaPolice Headqu as Strathc arters lyde in Glasgow is current at Pitt Street ÂŁ2.5m ly for (althoug h they are sale at be moving Glasgow to a new ÂŁ38m believed to ’s east office in end.) If not the ters, Tulliallahome for the n will play headquarthe new a major single but the role in When asked force. Scottish have Royal Governm about the headqu ent should Assent arters he new MacAsk by next be Edinbur said: “It services summe will gh or Glasgow of ACPOS ill added: “As which build not seems Preside r. of what fine as . Tullialla nt we already on the strength will lead Chief Constab a place chief constab n le Smith the “In the have. as any s Fire police service.reform on behalf Officers The single le to be based.â€? for a ASPS, SPF,police service, and the of the forward the ACPOS, “I know SPSA FBU are and running police force , not looking people looking could forward and SCDEA are like in as early “I know back. , not back, determi as April be up the Chief Constab the services will, ned challen this journey is le 2013 challen ging one with Governmto work construand are at ge and Smith, rise to Protec new services a tough - change times a shape and ting the ent to deliver ctively tive and call we can deliver Wee which the - but this is is always efficien an effecCount be proud a journey t new Scottish Service whole of y for of, . Plans for Scotlan 21 Years Police “In fire d is on.â€? ‡ 'HYL the single outline & rescue, Burglar police force FHV LQ the all eight Alarm FOXGLQ front 32 division force would Chief J ÂżUH and rear & Comm s Home Monit s to stave be split into DODUP ‡ No Depos tion. ored off centrali ER[HV ercial with Police )RU 6 it sa‡ Â… 0 FRWWLV 24hr Resp K 3ROL Phon onse. FH 5H ‡ 0R RQWKO\ E\ 6WDQGLQJ eline: 2 Major VSRQV QWK &R dema H DODU servic 2UGHU ‡ :HH & nding QWUDFW 0LQLP )XOO 3 acpos P LQVWDOOHUV es Includ XP DUWV ‡ &&79 RXQW\ 5H /D policy ed. PXVW www ODERX XQFK 6 criter PHHW 6HUYLF .glen U If you ia WKH SHFLDO HG 0D dale secu have LQWDLQH no servic offer you G 5H rity.c e provid a one SDLUHG inspec o.uk er we tion for time only can Wee Count ÂŁ50 plus and vat. parts, batter y ies

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Christmas Ceilidhs

Our Christmas ceilidhs are coming up fast. Tickets are available for both ceilidhs at break and lunchtime in the school. The cost is £3.00 per ticket. The ceilidh for S1-S3 will take place on Monday 19th December 6.30 – 9.30 and the S4-S6 ceilidh will take place on Wednesday 21st December 7.00 – 10.00pm. There will be a live band at both events.

Christmas Concert – all invited!

All families and friends of Alloa Academy are invited to our Christmas Concert on Monday 12th December 6.30 – 8.30pm. Entry is £1.00 and tea, coffee and mince pies will be on sale. There will be a wide variety of musical acts including the Academy singers, the winners of our talent shows, whole class performances and the samba band. Some of our amazing pieces of Art work will be on display and you will be able to browse and marvel at the works produced in Art by our pupils! Please come along and join us for what will be a great evening guaranteed to get you into a festive mood.

S1 Reading Treasure Hunt – Biscuits for Excellence Our S1 pupils have this week been completing the Biscuits for Excellence Challenge which some parents may have tied out on our Open Evening. This will continue into next week for some classes. Small groups of pupils are finding information placed

in every department of the school related to a specific kind of biscuit, replicas of which have been produced by S3 pupils. Each piece of information also ties in with the work of each department, resulting in a fun and enriching activity for pupils.

Cluster collegiate event

Several pupils took part in the Forth Valley Disability Sports Annual Schools Boccia Chamopionships at Tullibody Civic Centre. Congratulations to Ben McLuckie who won an individual silver medal.

weecounty

Friday 30.09.11 Issue 843

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Congratulations to pupils in Erskine House who have won this week’s Inter-House competition and gain 15 points for the House. Schaw were in second place gaining 10 points with Bruce in third place gaining 5 House points. This is the same result as last week. 1B2 and 2E1 topped the table for completing homework last week.

Practice for the dancing is already underway for S1-S3 and there will be a special double period refresher lesson for S5/6 next Monday 12th December during period 2 and period 3.

Alloa & Hillfoots

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of walk and one start of the halfway down. figure at the “tribute� trees alarmed artist Rob the slender have been designed by on ASSERS-BY year’s The figure, of vandalism as part of last of several by evidence the tree-lined path Mullholland one Walk, project, is Parliament y Alloa Tower. Imagine Alloa dotted around the town 14th-centur been leading to polished such artworks objects have marine grade Two decorative Sentinal statue – made from which has a highly the reflective damaged – stainless steel over 2.7 mirrored surface. standing at a ton, Each figure, weighing nearlyform. metres and and own shape body and one creates its the upper been dented In this case, arms have of upraised an act of the - clearly in several times over on the vandalism. been broken The tree has trunk and now lies at of the signs show lower part angle, again a 45-degree

interference have also deliberate its branches trees along Several of Each of the been sheered. also leads to the Tesco plaque ‘in the path, which carries a tribute superstore, of Mark Lovell’. Central loving memory contacted but they The Wee County regarding this, our Scotland Police for comment about were unavailable going to print. the time of enquiry at

Alloa Academy Notes

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Alva Illuminations

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Page 13

Page 14

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D Day for Alva Pool By Alison Mann

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he fate of the Alva pool now rests in the hands of Clackmannanshire council as members of Ochil Leisure Enterprises handed in their business plan today (Friday). The group rallied round support and handed their plan to the council, which if accepted could create much needed jobs in the area as well as providing obvious health benefits. Their proposal outlines their plans for

Burglar Alarms Home & Commercial

keeping the Alva pool open for members of the community. Simon Kindlen, spokesman for the group said: “At our most recent meeting we discussed the project and came to the conclusion that it’s about more than the pool. “It’s also to do with the health of a community and the wealth of a community and creating jobs. “It is a fallacy that you can’t make

money from a pool. “It will be a cultural community hub as well.� OLE had previously written a letter to Clackmannanshire council informing them that the report submitted today would be an ‘interim business plan’. Time constraints meant they could not produce a full report. Within the letter, signed by Jenny Paterson, the group state the interim

business plan will: “Summarise research to date and include financial modelling to show what scenario will be sustainable and provide health and community benefit. “The second stage will be to engage a team of consultants to undertake in depth research and business planning on behalf of the group. “Ochil Leisure Enterprises are currently exploring a number of options

Continued on page 13

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Editorial & Production

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We welcomed to the school on Monday afternoon all teachers from across our Cluster for a joint event with a focus on numeracy across the curriculum. It was highly positive for all staff to engage in discussion with colleagues from another sector.

New member of staff

We are delighted that Margo Johnstone has joined us as librarian while Mrs Smith is on maternity leave. We hope that she will enjoy the time that she spend in Alloa Academy.

Sports News

The Alloa Academy Gymnastics Team finished 3rd out of 6 teams to collect bronze medals in level 2 competition at the Scottish Schools Gymnastics Heats for Clackmannanshire at Alva Academy on Sunday 4th December. The girls competed on both floor and vault and recorded some very competitive scores. Well done to Neve McAleer, Gillian Reid, Jodie Currie and Rebecca Bissett.

The Alloa Academy team of David Wilson, Elle Wilson and Lee Duncan were joint 3rd with St Modans HS. All of these pupils will now go on to represent Alloa Academy at the National Schools Boccia Championships which will be held in The Peak, Stirling, in February 2012.

Central Schools Bowl Rugby

Unfortunately due to a waterlogged pitch our rugby team was unable to play the semifinal match against QV school. Because of extremely tight timescales, the match had to be decided by coin toss, which unfortunately we lost, meaning that we will not progress any further in this competition. This is particularly disappointing as the boys were beginning to play so well together as a team. We are hoping to be able to arrange a friendly match with a local school in the not-too-distant future.

Christmas

18

Friday 9.12.11

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entertainment weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

Q’s Views! THE WRONG GUY

I was recently asked what the name of the person was who directed the film “Avatar”. I meant to say James Cameron, but slipped up and said David Cameron. This drew howls of derisory laughter from all around me, and cost us certain victory in the pub quiz tie breaker. Avatar would never have worked if David Cameron had been the director. He’d have kept cutting the budget.

WOMEN WHO WEAR THEIR PYJAMAS TO GO OUT

When I was a little boy, I remember I got a cool set of pyjamas that made me look a bit like Luke Skywalker (you’d have to have seen them to understand why). I remember being frustrated when my mum wouldn’t let me go out in them and play Star Wars with my mate

The Wee County is pleased to have the infamous ‘Q, from Airdrie’ writing for the Entertainment Pages, to give you all some comic relief. As a regular contributor to the Glasgow Metro newspaper, and a regular in the comedy scene in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Q has given the Wee County an exclusive column, which we are sure will have you wanting for more in the next edition of the Wee County!

Spanner who had a cool Darth Vadar costume, and so we never got to re-enact cool battles from what was then known as The Star Wars Trilogy.

up, or locked up under the Mental Health Act. Therefore, to any women out there in their PJs during the day- stop it at once. It’s not clever, and just looks plain silly. Incidentally, years later Spanner got invited to a Pyjama Party at a Glasgow nightclub. He didn’t wear pyjamas to bed at this age, so turned up at the front door wearing just a pair of Mr T underpants. Alarmingly, he was allowed into the club.

LEWIS HAMILTON At least I can argue that I was only little at the time, and had an excuse to want to wear pyjamas outdoors. I cannot, however, understand what motivates women to go out in their pyjamas to go shopping, and run errands. Especially when those pyjamas have Barbie or Peppa Pig on them. If men were to behave like that, we’d either get beaten

Q’s Views tends to run a bit behind in terms of what is topical, and by the time you read this the F1 season will be well and truly over. However, let me say this- Lewis Hamilton did NOT make a comeback in his last victory. Much has been said of how he finished first ahead of world champion Sebastian Vettel by winning the race and overtaking him on the

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first lap, but what these people fail to mention is that Vettel got a puncture and crashed out of the race on the first lap, so EVERYBODY overtook him as he sat in the gravel trap swearing in German. Indeed, I could have finished ahead of Vettel in that race, even if I’d been driving my own car which has acceleration of 0 – 10 in 60 seconds. I do believe that Hamilton will be back next year better than ever, especially now that he’s split from that Pussycat Doll. Hamilton’s a smart guy, so I fail to see why he’d date a woman who sings “I Don’t Need A Man” (forgetting of course her management team and record producers) and can’t spell the words “Stick With You”.

NUMPTY OF THE WEEK

This weeks Numpty of the Week was nominated by

DODGY PARKING

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN all you have to do is complete the crossword below and send it to: Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG *Terms & conditions apply ACROSS 1. Group of musicians (9) 7. Eye socket (5) 8. Jockey (5) 9. Epoch (3) 10. Part of the foot (6) 14. Shrewd (6) 15. Cacophony (3) 18. Thighbone (5) 20. Ice hut (5) 21. Court game (9)

DOWN 1. Woodwind instrument (4) 2. Floor show (7) 3. Consumes (4) 4. Despot (6) 5. Assistance (3) 6. Precipitous (6 11. One of three (7) 12. Perplex (6) 13. Gaped (6) 16. Flightless bird (4) 17. Metal money (4) 19. Disorderly crowd (3)

We are on the prowl to find the Wee County’s dodgy parkers but we need your help! Unfortunately, we cannot do this campaign on our own – so please send in your dodgy parking pictures to weecounty@ hubpublishing.co.uk. Does one of your colleagues suffer from dodgyparkingitis? If so, take a picture of the evidence and send it to us! Don’t worry, all identities will be protected and vehicle registrations blanked out. This is all in the name of good fun, and in no way are we personally attacking any individual or group.

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU Answers on page 31

Name: .................................................................. T:. ............................................ Address:.....................................................................................................................

Quentin Reynolds. No, I don’t mean me, I mean a chap in Texas who happens to have the same name as me, who happened to work for the same company as me years ago, and over the course of a year as we accidentally got emails meant for each other we became email pals! Anyway, Quentin has nominated 24-year old Anthony Miranda, a known criminal who tried to rob a man at gunpoint in Chicago. Not content with relieving his victim of his wallet, watch and phone, Miranda ordered the guy out of his car too (presumably so as he could steal it). Unbeknownst to him his victim was a mixed martial arts expert who fought regularly in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, so as soon as Miranda’s victim got out of the car he managed to get a hold of the gun, disarm him, and beat the leaving crap out of him before the police arrived. Not only that,

at some point in the struggle Miranda’s gun went off and shot him in his left ankle. The moral to the story is that you should never mess with someone who fights in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. I’m told that there are no rules for that contest. Although I’m not sure if firearms are allowed… yet.

AND FINALLY This message may reach you belatedly, but I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and thank you for your continued support for The HUB over the past year. A newspaper without a loyal following is like a kid who wakes up on Christmas day and discovers Santa has given him a miss, so thank you for your support. See you in 2012!

Birthday only Greetings

£9

Surprise a friend or relative with a special birthday or anniversary greeting in the WeeCounty News. Simply send in a suitable photograph together with your remittance for £9.00 (inc. VAT) (cheques made payable to HUB Media Ltd., by 4pm of the Wednesday that the greeting is to appear or call 01259 404 006. Name ............................................................................ Address......................................................................... ...................................................................................... Tel:................................................................................ Email Address:.............................................................. Message Only 1 word per box

WEE COUNTY NEWS, HUB Media Ltd, Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Tannochside Park, Uddingston G71 5PW

or email weecounty@hubpublishing.co.uk

weecounty

lifestyle

Friday 9.12.11

The many faces of short hair F

or all the women out there who chopped off their long locks for a short bob or pixie cut, the good news is that they’re still hotter than a pair of hair straighteners. Thanks to our very own international style export Victoria Beckham and Hollywood stars such as Elisha Cuthbert, these cute hairstyles are here to stay for the foreseeable future - or at least until they decide to add hair extensions. Short hair has so many benefits for women. Not only are short styles wonderfully low maintenance, they are an excellent way to frame your face and make the most of your best features. Short hair also forces you to style your hair every day instead of lazily tying it back in a pony tail. The problem is that many women are frightened by any hairstyle that lops off hair above the shoulder.

They worry that short hair won’t be feminine enough or won’t suit their face shape. The truth is that you can wear your hair short if you choose the right style and it can be super sexy and girlie. Long or oval faces If your face is long or oval, stylists recommend an angular bob that’s closely cropped to the nape of the neck and traces the jaw line in the front, which helps to square-up the face. Kym Ryder and Victoria Beckham’s hair styles are perfect examples of an angular bob, although you need poker straight hair to pull off a super sharp cut as Kym has. For long and narrow faces, extra volume at the sides, like Victoria’s, helps to widen the face. To style angular bobs, apply a light hold gel to towel dried hair and blow dry using a round brush so hair falls just under the chin. Short styles that must be avoided are pixies that add layers to the

PET of the week

top of the hair, which will further elongate the face. Square faces If your face is square, you can soften the shape with a short and choppy pixie cut. The pixie is perfect for making the most of your eyes and cheekbones, which draws attention away from an overly square jaw line. To style, blow dry hair and use a quality styling cream or wax to sculpt and tease each section. Short styles to avoid are angular chin-length bobs, which will accentuate the jaw line. Round or heart-shaped faces If your face is round or heart shaped, you can skim away volume by adding framing long layers and a side-swept fringe. A fringe also helps to highlight the eye area rather than the cheeks, where round faces are at their fullest. To style, try flicking the ends out rather than blowing them under, which can slim the face by changing the direction of the hair. Apply a maximum-hold mousse to damp hair and use fingers and a blow dryer to achieve a younger edgier style. Short styles to avoid are sleek Betty Boo bobs that tuck under the

chin, which will add further volume to the cheeks and round out the face.

21

Kym Ryder - perfect face for an angular bob

weecounty recipes Bacon stuffing balls W

ith only two ingredients to worry about, this simple treat makes an ideal accompaniment for the Christmas table or for cold cuts on Boxing Day, or can be made in bulk as Christmas party appetisers. For a different look, wrap the stuffing balls in the unchopped bacon instead. Makes 8 to serve 4.

Age: 2

MIST Y

Lives: In Alloa Breed: Basenjio cross

Likes: Eating anything, walks and playing in water Dislikes: Noise

To submit your pet please send a photo of your pet to weecounty@ hubpublishing.co.uk or post your photo to The Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG with your name, your pets name, breed, age and his or her likes and dislikes. * although we will try, we cannot guarantee the return of any photos posted to us.

INGREDIENTS 1 x 85g packet sage & onion stuffing mix 200g streaky back bacon METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 220C/Gas Mark 7 and lightly grease a non-stick baking tray. 2. Chop the bacon into very fine pieces and dry fry in a non-stick frying pan over a high heat until crispy. Turn out onto a piece of kitchen paper to drain off any excess fat. 3. Make the stuffing according to the pack instructions. 4. Mix the fried bacon pieces evenly throughout the stuffing, then shape the stuffing into 8 evenly sized balls. 5. Place the stuffing balls on the baking tray and transfer to the oven, baking for 20-25 minutes.

22

recruitment

Friday 9.12.11

DEISEL MECHANIC Job No: ALL/22952 SOC Code: 5223 Wage Meets Nat Min Wage Hours MON - FRI Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 06 December 2011 Closing date 30 December 2011 Pension details Pension available Description Oran Environmental Solutions is currently recruiting for a Diesel Mechanic. The role requires supporting the Process Operations Manager, Process Manager and other maintenance staff by ensuring that all mechanical equipment is maintained to guarantee operational and Health & Safety requirements.To apply for this role it is essential that you have experience working on all or some of the following - JCB, Massey Ferguson, New Holland, Telehandler or Load Alls. You will be Time Served in a mechanical discipline and hold a full driving license. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Erin Hamilton at Oran Environmental Solutions, recruitment@oran-es.co.uk. Employer Oran Environmental Solutions CORPORATE SECURITY OFFICER Job No: ALL/22936 Employer Reference: SPL/CS12 SOC Code: 9241 Wage £6.50 per hour Hours 48 Hours (Days/Nights/ Weekends) Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 25 November 2011 Closing date 09 December 2011 Pension details No details held Description Must be age 18+. Frontline SIA licence is essential. Previous experience in security would be an advantage. You must hold a full driving licence (own transport preferred). Duties to include creating a safe environment for customers and colleagues, meet and greeting, some administration, controlling access and egress to site, dealing with visitors, providing written and verbal reports and any other associated tasks as required. Reference number must be given when applying. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Lara Elwick at Securitas Security Personnel, north.recruitment@securitas. uk.com. Employer Securitas Security Personnel

PLUMBER Job No: ALL/22929 SOC Code: 5314 Wage £10.00 PER HOUR Hours 16-30 PER WEEK OVER A 7 DAY ROTA BETWEEN 7AM-5PM Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 23 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description Must have relevant extensive experience. Gas safety certification would be an advantage but not essential. Duties include general plumbing and heating, boiler and bathroom installs. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to John O’ Malley at Alpha Plumbing Services, john@ alpha321.com. Employer Alpha Plumbing Services MECHANICAL FITTER Job No: ALL/22918 Employer Reference: Mechanical Fitter SOC Code: 5222 Wage EXCEEDS NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE Hours 70 HOURS OVER 7 DAYS Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Temporary Date posted 17 November 2011 Closing date 15 December 2011 Pension details No details held Description We are looking for people who have served a recognised mechanical engineering apprenticeship and or substantial on the job experience with regular appraisals assessments or a technical reference from previous employer to demonstrate competence.C CNSG Safety Passport is also required. We are ideally looking for fitters who have experience of overhauling valves. Terms and conditions are as per the NAECI terms and conditions. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kevin Devine at Weir Services Limited, The Harlands, New Alloa, Alloa, Clackmananshire, FK10 1TB or to kevin.devine@ weirgroup.com. Employer Weir Services Limited TEAM LEADER Job No: ALL/22912 SOC Code: 3211 Wage £12.85 PER HOUR Hours ROTA BASIS Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 15 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description RNA or RGN Level 1, RNMH or RMN Level 1 required. You will be required to support the management and lead a team of staff. You will oversee

the delivery of care. Previous supervisory experience is required, and experience of working with people with dementia preferred. The company offers an attractive remuneration package including overtime rate and company sick pay scheme. Successful applicants are required to provide an enhanced disclosure. Disclosure expense will be met by employer. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/22912, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am - 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255. REGISTERED NURSE Job No: ALL/22915 SOC Code: 3211 Wage £10.75 TO £11.76 PER HOUR Hours ROTA BASIS Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 16 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description RNA or RGN Level 1, RNMH or RMN Level 1 required. You will be required to plan, implement and evaluate care in accordance with nursing care policy and procedure.The company offers an attractive remuneration package including overtime rate and company sick pay scheme. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/22915, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am - 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255. CLEANER Job No: ALL/22858 SOC Code: 9233 Wage EXCEEDS NAT MIN WAGE Hours 10 HOURS BETWEEN 8.30AM-4.30PM MONDAY-FRIDAY Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 03 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description Experience an advantage but not essential as

training will be provided. Duties include, mopping, hoovering, ironing and other cleaning duties as required. Must have access to transport. This is a permanent job initially working 10 hours per week with the potential to increase to 30 hours per week. Applicants to email a CV and references How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/ written application to Tanya Paterson at Diamond Domestics, diamonddomestics@yahoo.co.uk. Employer Diamond Domestics RECEPTIONIST Job No: ALL/22938 SOC Code: 4216 Wage £6.08 - £7 per hour Hours 11 hours of work. Mixed days. Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 28 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description Duties include Welcoming Visitors to the Care Centre and to handle telephone calls in a friendly and efficient manner. To direct Visitors & telephone calls to the correct location. To assist the Administrator as and when required. Previous receptionist/secretarial support experience required, along with previous telephone experience, the ability to work on own initiative, good communication and organisational skills and a welcoming and approachable nature. Candidate must be a team player. It is also desirable for the applicant to have previous experience of working with the elderly, payroll knowledge and good time management skills. Successful applicants are required to provide an enhanced disclosure. Disclosure expense will be met by employer. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/ written application to Online or email applications only at HC-1, jobs.96937.776@schealthcare. aplitrak.com. Employer HC-1 HOTEL DUTY MANAGER Job No: ALL/22945 SOC Code: 1221 Wage £6.50+ per hour Hours 30-40 per week, 5 days over 7, between 7am and 12 midnight Location Tillicoultry, Clackmannanshire FK13 Duration Permanent Date posted 02 December 2011 Pension details No details held Description Must be 18+. Experience within a hotel industry is essential. Must hold a personal licence. Duties will include staff training and supervision, cash

weecounty handling, liasing with suppliers and contractors, reception duties, food and beverage. Due to the nature of the role the postholder may be required to stay overnight as and when required. The employer has claimed an exception under the Equality Act 2010. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to David Rutherford at Bridge Inn, davidrutherford22@ yahoo.com. Employer Bridge Inn SCANNER OPERATOR Job No: ALL/22943 SOC Code: 8139 Wage Meets National Minimum Wage Hours 09.00am - 17.00pm Monday-Friday Location ALLOA, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Temporary Date posted 02 December 2011 Closing date 06 January 2012 Pension details No details held Description Temporary Position may lead to permanent. Required to operate a computer controlled high speed document scanner 3000 pages per hour. Applicant must be computer literate, high levels of concentration and manual dexterity essential. Regular lifting will be required. A signed Confidentiality Agreement will be required by the successful candidate. Minimum Wages. Applies.Applicants should apply in writing to: CADmeleon UK Ltd block B, Castle St Ind Est, Castle Street, Alloa, FK10 1EU. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to David Hunter at Cadmeleon Technical Services, Block B, Castle Street Industrial Estat, ALLOA, Clackmannanshire, FK10 1EU. Employer Cadmeleon Technical Services PRODUCTION STAFF Job No: ALL/22950 Employer Reference: BMC 30 SOC Code: 8139 Wage £6.08 Per Hour Hours Monday to Friday Location TILLICOULTRY, Clackmannanshire FK13 Duration Temporary Date posted 05 December 2011 Closing date 12 December 2011 Pension details No details held Description This Vacancy is being advertised on behalf of Topstaff Employment Limited who is operating as an employment Agency.We are looking to recruit PRODUCTION STAFF for our client based in the Tillicoultry area. You will be carrying out functions that require patience and attention to detail. This is a repetitive job that

weecounty requires the capability to work with small and delicate parts. Working on a production line you must have good hand to eye coordination as you have to maintain speed to feed the rest of the team. Safety footwear and hi-viz vest are essential for this role.Hours of work are Monday Thursday 7.30am 16.30pm and Friday 7.30am 12.00For more detail contact 01786 451550 or e-mail cv to kmulcahy@topstaffemployment. com Agy. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/ written application to Bernadette McGarrity at Topstaff, kmulcahy@ topstaffemployment.com. Employer Topstaff

use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255.

the instructions on the webpage. Employer Boots-UK BOOKKEEPER Job No: ALL/22896 SOC Code: 4122 Wage Negotiable depending on experience Hours 16+ PER WEEK, shifts BETWEEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 9am - 5pm Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 14 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description You must have general bookkeeping skills. Duties to include VAT and PAYE, invoicing along with other related tasks. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to David Boyce at J K Tyres and Autocentre Ltd, jktyres@ live.co.uk. Employer J K Tyres and Autocentre Ltd Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearingimpaired people is 0845 6055 255. CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

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Are you looking to make the next move that will put your career on the right path? This is an outstanding opportunity to join an expanding newspaper group. You will be part of a dynamic and friendly sales environment, where rewards reflect effort. We will expect you to have drive, determination and flair. A lack of sales experience is not an issue as we pride ourselves on our excellent in-house training. But we will expect you to have excellent communication skills and the ability to work on your own initiative. In return, we will give you a first class salary and excellent bonus potential. If you think you have what it takes, contact us today.

FR

This is an opportunity to join an expanding company who have a strong portfolio of newspapers across South Lanarkshire, Perthshire and Clackmannanshire. Three papers will be launched from the Alloa office in the very near future and you will play a key part in shaping their content. A car owner would be preferred. Send written applications, including CV and clippings to: Hub Media Ltd Scott Mochar Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Uddingston G71 5PW Tel: 01698 803909 Email: scott@hubpublishing.co.uk

Telesales Executive

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re you looking to make the next move that will put your career on the right path? Or perhaps hoping to take that first step into the world of journalism? Hub Media is looking for a talented reporter / trainee reporter to join its team working on the Wee County News, based in Alloa. The successful applicant will be adaptable and able to cover news and sport while bringing exciting ideas to the table. We are looking for an ambitious reporter or graduate with a qualification in journalism, shorthand and knowledge of Scots Law. The ideal candidate will have an excellent news sense and the ability to remain calm while working to a strict deadline.

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RETAIL SUPERVISOR Job No: ALL/22886 SOC Code: 7111 Wage ÂŁ6.38 per hour Hours 35 per week, 5/7 days between 8am-9pm, rota Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Temporary Date posted 09 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description Must have previous retail supervisory experience. Duties are to do all aspects of supervising in a retail environment and covering all areas from staff to tills, customers as required. Full discussion at interview. Immediate start. Temporary for an initial 3 month period and may become permanent. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Michael Morgan at B and M Homestores, 406alloa@ bmstores.co.uk. Employer B and M Homestores

!

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provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255.

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Job No: ALL/22887 SOC Code: 7111 Wage ÂŁ8277 Per Annum Hours 24 HOURS, 3 out of 6 Days Location Alloa FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 09 November 2011 Closing date 07 December 2011 Pension details Pension

available Description Looking for a job where no two days are the same Cheque Centre, a leading alternative financial services provider is looking for a CSR who will support the Branch Manager in delivering the store KPIs. You will be able to deliver excellent customer services and have a good eye for detail. Our stores are in town centre locations on easily accessible public transport routes and hours of work support a worklife balance. Please visit www. chequecentre.co.ukOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) for full details to apply. Cheque Centre is currently recruiting for a number of positions due to growth and expansion plans across the estate. This position is subject to a CRB check Credit Check How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/22887, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am - 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones

FR

BOOTS55871-CUSTOMER ASSISTANT Job No: ALL/22940 SOC Code: 7111 Wage MEETS NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE Hours VARIOUS SHIFT PATTERNS TO BE ARRANGED Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 29 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description Whether it is helping customers, serving on the tills, or restocking shelves, you’ll deliver a first class shopping experience to all of our customers. You will genuinely want to help people. Be interested in how other people may be feeling. Be sociable, enjoy spending time with others and look for opportunities to build relationships with people. Becomfortable in new situations and meeting new people. Remain calm under pressure, and be optimistic and positive. Be keen to ask questions to understand the customers’ needs and to learn about new products, promotions and offers. Be reliable and conscientious, completing tasks and not leaving it for others. Enjoy sharing knowledge to help sales. You’ll enjoy spending time with our customers; listening and demonstrating genuine care and interest in their needs. Apply online: www.boots.jobsOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) with ref: BOOTS55871. Do not call into Store for applications. This job may close early if there is a high response. How to apply You can apply for this job by visiting www.boots. jobsOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following

23

Friday 9.12.11

ww w.p ink tur ban .co m

SENIOR CARE WORKER Job No: ALL/22873 SOC Code: 6115 Wage ÂŁ7.40 PER HOUR Hours FULL OR PART TIME WORK AVAILABLE ON A ROTA BASIS. Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 08 November 2011 Pension details No details held Description You are required to have SVQ level 3 in care, or equivalent. You will support the deputy and team leader in the day to day care of the residents. You will be involved in care planning and reviews for residents.The company offers an attractive remuneration package including: overtime rate, company sick pay scheme. Successful applicants are required to provide an enhanced disclosure. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/22873, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am - 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and

recruitment

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24

services

Friday 9.12.11

weecounty

weecounty services 01259 404 006 To advertise in this section, call the Wee County sales team NOW

SECURITY

GARDENING SERVICES

BLINDS

Reid Tree & Garden Services

• Tree felling, shaping & trimming • All other landscaping services available • Mono blocking, patios & paths laid Pathways & drives gravelled • Slabbing & walls repaired or replaced • Fences & turfing • All types and sizes of trees supplied and planted from 1mtr to 10mtr

INDUSTRIAL AND HOME BLINDS weecounty package

CCTV Basic Package

4 Cameras, Monitor, Recorder, Mouse and Installation

£899.98

For free estimate and advice telephone Mr. Reid: 0800 0432375 / 07979 634002

G.J.S.

www.glendalesecurity.co.uk

0800 318 083

LANDSCAPES & FENCING

UPHOLSTERY

Property Maintenance

• FENCING • DECKING • SLABBING • TREE FELLING • LAWN MAINTENANCE • CHIPPING • TIDY UPS • EXTERIOR PAINTING • BRICKWORK • GUTTERS REPAIRED & CLEANED • GARDEN WALLS • MONOBLOCKING • DRAINAGE

FREE ESTIMATES CALL GORDON TEL: 07917 196 653 01324 619 402 ALL YOUR NEEDS IN ONE www.gjslandscaping.co.uk PLUMBERS

Ewan Douglas PLUMBING

24HR EMERGENCY REPAIRS NO CALL OUT FEE

Mob: 07861 498 692

Complete bathroom installations FREE ESTIMATES

Tel: 01259 215 036

www.ewandouglasplumbing.co.uk

Central Plumbing & Heating Your local gas safe registered heating engineers

Boiler Repair Service & Installation Showers, Bathrooms & Burst Pipes

24 Hour Call Out OAP Discount

Tel 07736 888891 centralplumbing1@hotmail.co.uk

Robert Shepherd Plumbing Ltd PLUMBING AND CENTRAL HEATING

231/2 hour service

Domestic & Commercial call on 01259 215668

07831 386072

Plus VAT

Limited Quantity

RE-UPHOLSTERY Cintique • Ercol • Wade • Parker Knoll Frazers • Duresta • Reid etc

Re-upholstery + Re-covering FREE Scatter Cushions • FREE Arm Covers FREE Estimate Also Loose Covers & French Polishing Leather Repair Specialists

OAP Discounts • 7 Days Service

NU-REST

RE-UPHOLSTERY

Your Local Master Upholsterers

All areas including Falkirk, Stirling, Cumbernauld, Kilsyth, Grangemouth, Bo’ness, Linlithgow, Alloa & Dunblane

CALL FREE 0500 454549 All major credit cards accepted. Interest Free Credit • Details On Request • Typical APR 0%

* 50% of all Fabrics

STORAGE

SELF STORAGE Secure 20ft

Storage Containers to rent Short or long term

Contact Central Storage, Stirling 01786 470954 - 07879 895 824

To advertise your business on this page

PLASTERING

N&G

Plastering

Plastering, Interior and exterior painting and Tiling work all undertaken at competitive rates Coving installation Full liability insurance

Quality assured FREE Estimates Contact Gary on: 01259 210 311 or 07909 923 556 TV AERIAL SERVICES

INGLIS

INSTALLATIONS T/V. Aerials • Repairs Sky Digitial. Free to view services & Extra points. Tel: (01506) 824 614 or text JOB to 07541 288 165 ELECTRICIAN

Alex Hill

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Offering electrical services and installation work to industrial, commerical and domestic premises Tel/Fax: 01259 210 445 Mob: 07957 395 522 PAINTER & DECORATOR

call Heather on 01259 404 006

Colourway PAINTING & DECORATING

Interior Decorating FREE ESTIMATES No job too small Call 01259 752 340 or mob: 0788 420 6186

LOUVRES, VENETIANS, ROLLERS WOODEN and PLEATED SAVE £££’s BUY DIRECT

BUY 1 BLIND GET ONE

FREE

ON SELECTED RANGES

FREE MEASURING, ESTIMATING & FITTING CLEAN AND REPAIR SERVICE AVAILABLE

Tel:

01259 212 837 and 01259 211 302

UNIT 2, Bridge Motor Factors, Broad Street, Alloa, FK10 1AN BUILDERS

Roofs R Us Up to 15 Years Guarantee On All New Roofs

• • • • •

Slating & Tiling UpVC cladding All cement work & led work undertaken Roofs cleaned and coated Gutters repaired, cleaned & renewed

SPECIALISTS IN FLAT ROOFS All areas covered Family Run Business

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CALL OUT COMPETITIVE PRICES

01324 808 722 0800 303 2217

MANZIE

ROOFING SERVICES

24hr CALL OUT

service@manzieroofing.co.uk www.manzieroofing.co.uk For a free estimate call

01259 210 849/07907400 566 SLATING / FELTING / TILING / SHEETING / CLADDING / GUTTERING / uPVC FACIAS ROUGH CASTING / BUILDING WORKS

TV AERIALS

Aerials T.V. AERIALS STIRLING

DIGITAL AERIALS Satellite installations and repairs ALL ~ WORK ~ GUARANTEED

CALL YOUR LOCAL ENGINEER NOW

0800 5118 300 MOBILE 0770 218 7010

INSURANCE APPROVED CONTRACTOR

VAN/ VAN DRIVER

VAN 4 U

House Clearances, Rubbish Uplifts, Single Item & Garden Rubbish Clearance 07938 722 394 JOINERY

NORLAND JOINERY All types of joinery work undertaken, loft conversion specialists, extensions, kitchens etc. Free estimates

Tel: 07831 284 618

www.norlandjoinery.com

weecounty

Christmas Lifestyle

25

Pretty as a pomander Friday 9.12.11

T

here are plenty of ways to invite fragrance into your home - or make excellent presents on a budget using household items and a bit of imagination. For example, pomanders are these wonderfully fragrant, naturally made room and wardrobe fresheners. They are perfect to make as gifts and a lovely way to spruce up your bedrooms during the winter months. What You Need: Firm round oranges (each one makes one pomander) Cloves Ribbon - your choice of colours, though green is perfect for Christmas. What You Do: 1. Push cloves into the orange in a line from top to bottom.

Make three more lines so that the orange is divided into quarters. 2. Keep making lines of cloves until the orange is covered. Place the orange in the oven at the lowest setting for half an hour so that it will dry out completely. Tie a ribbon around the orange and use it to scent your wardrobe Another cheap, but very cheerful, way of bringing some scents into your life - or to your presents - is with a potpourri gel jar. Here’s how to make them: What you need: 2 Jars with lids2 cups distilled water 4 packets of plain Gelatine 50 drops essential oil (any scent) Food Colouring. What you do: 1. Heat one cup of

the distilled water in a saucepan. Add the desired colouring. Remove from the heat, add remaining 1 cup of distilled water and the gelatine, stirring to dissolve. 2. Divide the drops of essential oil, or potpourri oil, into the jars (wide mouth jam jars or canning jars work well). Add the gelatine mixture to the jars. 3. Place the jars in the refrigerator for about two hours. 4. Remove the jars from the refrigerator and cover with plastic wrap or the jar’s lid. If you are using the plastic wrap choose one the new coloured wraps for a prettier ‘topping”. Store them at room temperature. 5. To release the scent, remove the lid or plastic wrap.

If you would like to decorate the jar place piece of fabric over the lid or plastic wrap and tie with a coloured ribbon or lace. You can include a silk flower tied at the end of the ribbon or knotted at the base of the jar’s mouth for a floral presentation.

KARNDEAN

Professionally fitted by registered Karndean fitters Terms & conditions apply. Internet price must include VAT & delivery to the UK mainland.

We will beat or match ANY internet price.

e C n a r Clea

Picasso & Renoir

£9.99

per sqm 1 year guarantee

Guarantee sent direct to you from Karndean

Only at

DONNY’S

CARPETS

BEST QUALITY - BEST SERVICE

Main showroom Camelon• 01259 752 999 • www.donnyscarpets.co.uk also in Tillicoultry

26

motoring

Friday 9.12.11

weecounty

HILL STREET GARAGE Thomsons of Alloa WINTER TYRES NOW AVAILABLE Servicing, Welding, Tuning, Mechanical Repairs Six days a week.

All makes and models welcome.

TELEPHONE: 01259 722042 GARAGE

weecounty Motoring

Friday 9.12.11

Motoring

27

BMW X3 W

inter is firmly here, which means the terrible road conditions will test our driving ability. If we get the snow of previous years, car dealers will see an increased demand for 4x4s. This week we look at the newest version of the popular BMW X3. Performance Typically from BMW, buyers have a choice of three diesels to suit their budgets, a 2.0-litre with 181bhp (20d), and two 3.0-litre powerplants, 255bhp (30d) or 309bhp (35d). The 30d is properly fast, and the 35d is quicker still for the type of car, but in the main, most buyers should be perfectly happy with the 20d.

The smaller diesel comes in manual form and auto for the larger ones. Ride & Handling The X3 with Variable Damper Control is an appealing option. The technology monitors key items such as, your speed, driving style and the conditions of the road. It then adjusts the firmness of the suspension accordingly. What this delivers is agile and composed handling.

Costs It is not cheap, but the X3 is competitively priced, and resale values are very competitive with those of rivals such as the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60. The 2.0-litre diesel averages over 50mpg, with the 3.0-litre units PUZZLE ANSWERS from page 20 not all that far behind. SUDOKU ANSWERS Emissions are low for the type of car, meaning affordable tax bills for company car drivers.

CROSSWORD ANSWERS for last weeks Crossword competition answers see page 7

PETROL PRICES

Safety & Security The X3 comes with front, side and curtain airbags, and a host of electronic aids that are designed to keep you out of trouble. The usual security refinements we expect from BMW also grace the X3. Space & Practicality Something that is becoming more important in the world of motoring

UNLEADED ASDA - Alloa - 128.7 Tesco - Alloa - 128.9 Morrisons - Alloa - 128.9 Highest - 130.9 DIESEL ASDA - Alloa - 137.7 Tesco - Alloa - 137.9 Morrisons - Alloa - 137.9 Highest - 143.9 Source: petrolprices.com Prices correct at time of print.

is space. With the X3 there’s plenty of space for four six-foot-something adults to endure journeys in comfort. The X3 does have a transmission tunnel, meaning life isn’t so comfortable for a central rear passenger. The boot is large and well shaped, holdling 1600 litres when the rear seats are folded. The backrests are split 40/20/40 for added versatility. Equipment BMW offer a couple of trim levels for buyers to select from. SE spec gives you lots

of luxuries, including leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers and cruise control. Opt for the sportier, M Sport trim, will add some visual muscle with a body kit, bigger wheels, sports seats, and stiffer springs, but costs more. In short, you can add everything from satellitenavigation to a head-up display that projects your speed on to the windscreen – available from the impressive options list.

We come to you, home or office, when it suits you. Expert technicians with the very latest mobile bodyshop technology.

The mobile bodywork repair specialists Undetectable, durable repairs:

• Bumper, scuffs and splits • Panel scratches • Stone chips • Alloy wheel scrapes • Nexa (ICI) bodyshop systems and quality at a fraction of the cost • Rapid, punctual response • Professional, courteous and service fully guaranteed

Call us first, contact us on 07810 621 355 www.revive-uk.com

7 Kingseat Drive, Tillicoultry FK13 6RE

British Franchise Association

TOYOTA AURIS TR V VT 1.6 PETROL

Silver, 29700mls , 5 door, rear parking sensors Tax end of April 2012 Mot end of Feb 2012 WILL PUT NEW MOT ON CAR FOR BUYER. Service history, 2 owner from new First class condition

£5350 ono tel 01324 472682

ices David Morton Ltd r P p To Cars - Vans - All Scrap Metal Paid

01324 612 876 Glen Works, Glen Village, Falkirk

28

motoring

Friday 9.12.11

weecounty

G.S AUTO CENTRE

TULLIBODY

Servicing & Repairs • MOT arranged • Servicing • Timing Belts • Clutches • Brakes • Tyres & exhausts • Modifications • Minor Body Repairs • Welding • Collection & Delivery

ALL MAKES & MODELS ~~~ CARS & LIGHT COMMERCIALS ~~~ QUALITY WORK AT AFFORDABLE RATES ~~~ MORE THAN 50% LESS THAN YOUR MAIN DEALER ~~~ A COMPANY MOTORISTS CAN TRUST

T: 01259 729 700 • M: 07957 473 390 E: gsautocentre@btconnect.com Unit 5, Dumyat Business Park, Tullibody FK10 2PB

weecounty motoring

ACE AUTOS GARAGE SERVICES

Friday 9.12.11 29

35 Queen Street , Alva (01259) 760024 or mobile 07751719873

David Ferguson, has been a local Mechanical Engineer for the past 20 years, now operating from Alva he offers an expert service at competitive prices!

Testimonials from his clients include:

Mr and Mrs Lyle, Alva “We have used David for all our Mechanical and Electrical repairs and have complete confidence in him, he offers a superb service at hard to beat prices and takes the worry out of car repairs for us” Mr I Stewart, Cambus “I have used David for the past 15 years, now I am retired and every penny counts, David is a quality Engineer and a true professional I would highly recommend him for all his services..superb!

AUTO ELECTRICAL REPAIRS CLUTCH REPLACEMENT BRAKES SERVICES MOT REPAIRS GEARBOX REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT SAME DAY TYRES ALL MECHANICAL REPAIRS DIAGNOSTICS WE ALSO OFFER A PICK UP AND DELIVERY SERVICE UPON REQUEST

YOUR SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY! DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT THIS WINTER WE OFFER SAME DA Y TYRE SERVICE AT COMPETETIVE RATE S

30

motoring

Friday 9.12.11

weecounty

GET A GRIP THIS YEAR Get ready for

SMS ALLOA TYRES & EXHAUSTS Bedford Place, Alloa, FK10 1DH TYRES

SERVICING & REPAIRS

EXHAUSTS

BRAKES & SHOCKS

BATTERIES

PARTS & ACCESSORIES

MOT’S BY ARRANGEMENT

CALL NOW TO SECURE YOUR WINTER TYRES. WE ARE AN ECSTA PERFORMANCE CENTRE AND ARE ABLE TO OFFER A FULL RANGE OF KUMHO COLD WEATHER AND WINTER TYRES AMONG MANY OTHER BRANDS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES.

OP BY P R O OW ER CALL N R FREE WINT U FOR YO CHECK

FRIENDLY AND RELIABLE, LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1975

Call: 01259 216586 Saturday: 8.30pm to 4pm w w w. s m s a l l o a 2 @ l i v e . c o . u k

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm

weecounty

Friday 9.12.11

31

PROPERTY

Smart moves to cut energy wastage T

here’s nothing to concentrate the minds of homeowners on energy efficiency that the sort of price rises being announced by the big energy companies. The desire to save money, combined with a desire to be more environment-friendly is given added weight by the findings of recent surveys that have found people want more government action on going green A recent report from environmental think tank Green Alliance, for instance, is calling for the government to do more to raise the profile of “smart” features in homes. Backed by the insurer More Th>n, Teaching Homes to be green: smart homes and the environment, also calls for more research to be done to clarify the true environmental benefits of these new technologies. Smart features respond to information from sensors or user information, making it easier to control and improve a home’s energy output. One of the initial applications is the installation of smart electricity meters. It is hoped that these meters will be commonplace in homes

Clocking up bills: new smart meters could seriously cut bills. within the next 10 years and a research programme is currently under way to confirm their environmental benefits. The British public is under constant pressure to adopt a green lifestyle and smart features should be seen as a valuable option to UK homeowners as a way to make their homes more eco friendly. However, there has been little sustained research to date to quantify the

environmental benefits of the wider range of smart features, despite the fact that 27 per cent of the UK’s carbon emissions come from homes. Further research from More Th>n reveals that almost half of Britons believe the government needs to make people more aware of the options available to them to make their homes more energy efficient. Stephen Hale, director of Green Alliance, says: “Smart

features have not had much recognition as environmental solutions but our report makes their potential clear. They can make important contributions to the environmental challenges we face and we would like to see sustained research into this area. “The government needs to recognise that smart electricity meters are the critical first step in introducing a wider range of green smart features into homes.

In the nearer future we welcome the roll-out of real-time display units that will start to familiarise people with the smart meters and other features that will follow.” There is very little awareness among consumers about the existence or benefit of smart meters. When asked whether they knew what a smart meter was, 81 per cent of people surveyed said they had never heard of them. However, after

they were told more about them, 43 per cent said they would be interested in having one installed if it helped their home to be more energy efficient. Only a quarter, however, were willing to pay for this themselves. Instead, it was felt that the energy companies and the government should foot the bill. Commenting on the report, Paul Pritchard, corporate responsibility manager at More Th>n, says: “As the government makes progress on smart meters it is clear that a great deal will need to be done to raise awareness among consumers about the environmental benefits they offer. “If the government is committed to tackling climate change then it needs to invest time and money in taking smart meters forward and to work with the energy industry to make the environmental benefits clearer to consumers. There are currently very ambitious targets in place to cut UK emissions by 2050 to 60 per cent below 1990 levels and improving the sustainability of new and existing homes is going to play a big role in making this happen.”

GYMNASTICS

National Championships for Clacks Gymnasts T

alented Clackmannanshire gymnasts have qualified to represent the county in the National Schools Gymnastics Championships next spring. Tillicoultry, Park, Craigbank and Clackmannan primary schools will join Alva Academy and Lornshill Academy at the Scottish schools finals at the Bells Sports Centre, Perth on Sunday March 18 2012. The young gymnasts won

their place at the national event following success at the Clackmannanshire Schools Gymnastics Championships, held at Alva Academy on Sunday December 4. After routines performed by 230 youngsters, representing 12 primary and four secondary schools, Tillicoultry PS C Team, Craigbank PS A Team, Balfron HS C Team and Alva Academy B Team took top honours in the four main competition categories.

Clackmannanshire Schools Gymnastic Championships Results: PRIMARY LEVEL 1 1st Place Tillicoultry PS C Team 78.2 points 2nd Place Park PS A Team 76.8 points 3rd Place Tillicoultry PS D Team 76.6 points PRIMARY LEVEL 2 1st Place Craigbank PS A Team 84.55 points 2nd Place Sunny/Clacks PS Team 83.65 points 3rd Place Strathdevon PS C Team 81.1 points SECONDARY LEVEL 1 1st Place Balfron HS C Team 80.15 points 2nd Place Alva Academy A Team 78.4 points 3rd Place Lornshill Academy C Team 75.4 points SECONDARY LEVEL 2 1st Place Alva Academy B Team 88.6 points 2nd Place Lornshill Academy A Team 85.15 points 3rd Place Alloa Academy A Team 84.45 points Qualifying Schools to represent Clackmannanshire at the National Schools Gymnastics Championships in Perth on 18 March 2012: Primary Level 1 Tillicoultry PS Team C + Park PS Team A Primary Level 2 Craigbank PS Team A + Clackmannan PS Team A Secondary Level 1 Alva Academy Team A + Lornshill Academy Team C Secondary Level 2 Alva Academy Team B + Lornshill Academy Team A

Competition was fierce in all categories, especially at primary level one, where 155 young gymnasts, all of whom are relatively new to the sport, vied for top spot. Councillor Bobby McGill, Deputy Leader and spokesman for sport said: “The championships were a great success and

there was certainly no shortage of talent on show. We were delighted to see more than 700 supporters including parents, family and friends in attendance, who helped create a tremendous atmosphere of encouragement for the children. “We are also very grateful

to the array of school staff, PE teachers, coaches, Young Ambassadors and Young leaders as well as Hillfoots Gymnastics Club and the Scottish Gymnastics Association, who supplied the judges, without whom the event would not have been possible.” There are many

opportunities in Clackmannanshire for young people to further their interest and skill in gymnastics; Alloa Gymnastics Club, Hillfoots Gymnastics Club, Aero Gymnastics Club, Wee County Vaulters and sports development classes in many of the schools.

32

sport

Friday 9.12.11

weecounty

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Managers Comments:

S

aturday’s game against Neilston was always going to be a tough hurdle and we all knew that as a club. The players had worked hard in training working on possession and ways to break teams down. Neilston started the game with a lone striker which made them hard sometimes to break down. We started with our usual 3-4-3 with Gary Carroll, Steven Bell and James Donaldson being the front three. The game started well and we looked to have four or possible five chances in the first 15 mins which we never took clinically enough. As the game went on Neilston came more and more into the game and against the run of play took the lead. We were very careless and lacklustre at points of the game and this showed to the support. We managed to get back in the game and equalised through Adam Bonar after we pushed James Donaldson into a wide left area where he caused a bit

of bother and slipped Adam into score with a good finish. Minutes later with more slack play from us we allowed Neilston back in and they took a quick free kick whilst the Referee appeared to be speaking to one of our players and caught us out to take a further 2-1 lead. Referees do a difficult job but this mistake affected us and cost us a goal. The half time team talk was one of disbelief as we have never been so poor. We looked tired and disjointed and could not get play going at all. We did well for 15 mins then took the foot off the gas and allowed Neilston into the game, and they looked like the better side as the first half finished. We tried to explain to our team that teams from the west will come here and make the game as hard as they possibly can for us. Neilston certainly did that, they slowed the game down, broke up play and took the tempo and enthusiasm

out of it and they do that very well. It worked for them and they could possible of had the game finished by half time. The players were told at half time that they must do better and work to get the tempo lifted and create more chances. Second half was a little better as we fought a bit harder and worked as a unit more to try and bring ourselves back into the game. I felt we defended well at times with Steven Rennie being replaced by Jon Tully as he was feeling under the weather. Kenny Feaks again turned in a good performance and probably was one of the very few who would get pass marks for Saturday. We replaced Gary Carroll and Steven Bell with Ally Burns and Darren Cummings and this gave us a little bit more upfront. We felt would trouble their back four more with Ally’s pace,which did eventually pay off as he was slipped through

BOWLING

and finished really well to level the game. We then seemed to kick into to life a bit and probably should off finished the game off when Chris Purdie missed an opportunity late on. The good thing from the game is we are still in the fight and it may be a very tough one but one which we need to battle and worked hard to get through and I believe we can but again performances from some players must be improved and we must learn how to be ruthless and finish teams off. A big push is needed for Saturday away to Neilston in the replay. The players are determined to get a bit of form back and get into the next round. The tie is against us now but we can still do it with the correct application and high level of football the team can provide, please get behind the players for this Saturday.

Scottish Cup Third round

Fraser, Davy , Simi

DARTS Younger Cup B Divsion - sponsored by Abercromby

The Semi Finals & Final will be held this Friday Dec 9th, at the Abercromby , All players please be in venue for 7.15pm.

Blair Cup A Division - sponsored by Oakwood

The Semi Finals & Final will be held on Friday Dec 16th at the Oakwood, All players please be in the venue for 7.15pm.

Scottish mixed pairs -

The Scottish Mixed pairs will be held in the Oakwood on Saturday Jan 7th, All names to Davie Hanson asap.

Peter Hill Pairs - sponsored by Oakwood & Abercromby

The gents prelims will be held in the Abercromby & Oakwood on Monday Dec 19th. Each player’s venue will be in next week’s paper or on the facebook page. All players to be in each venue for 7.15pm. The Ladies & Gents finals will be held on Friday Jan 6th at the Oakwood.

Alloa Masters Qualifier

The first qualifier will be held in the Oakwood on Saturday Jan 7th. One winner will go forward to the finals in August. Please note 4 places have become available for this, contact Davie for details.

County Fives - sponsored by Abercromby

The Abercromby A team took the title beating Star A in the final. Many thanks to Greg at the AB for sponsoring the event.

J

oe Young and Maureen Dalgleish the first ever winners of the Jimmy Robertson cup (mixed pairs) presented by the late Jimmy Robertson’s family and president W,Bridgeman and his wife Caroline. Ladies dinner night this Saturday the 10th, gents will be allowed in after 9pm, for the live entertainment. O.A.Ps the list is on the club board for your Xmas lunch on the 17th please append your name to this asap. The children’s Xmas party is on Sunday the 18th book them in now or Santa won’t know if they are coming.

BUS TIMES

Roy Milne CSC bus for Sat’s game v Heart’s at Celtic Park ko 3pm departs:

12.30pm - Menstrie=Holytree 12.35 - Alva = Cvvairn 12.45 - Tillicoultry = Volenteer

1 pm - Alloa - Peppes 1.10 - Tullibody = Inn 1.25 - Stirling - Marches roundabout

Seat’s available. For more info contact website www.roymilnecsc.net

weecounty sport

Friday 9.12.11

33

JUNIOR FOOTBALL THE FIRST GOAL

Junior Football League Home Away TEAM P W D L F A W D L F A GD Pts Tayport 10 1 2 2 3 4 4 1 0 8 1 6 18 Oakley United 7 3 1 0 13 4 2 1 0 8 6 11 17 Newtongrange Star 9 2 1 2 8 5 1 2 1 9 8 4 12 Glenrothes 9 2 2 0 10 7 1 1 3 9 14 -2 12 Broughty Athletic 10 0 2 3 7 15 3 1 1 8 7 -7 12 Broxburn Athletic 7 2 1 0 7 3 1 1 2 5 7 2 11 SAUCHIE JUNIORS 6 2 0 0 4 2 1 2 1 7 7 2 11 Ballingry Rovers 9 1 2 1 10 9 1 2 2 5 7 -1 10 Penicuik Athletic 7 2 0 2 9 7 1 0 2 4 4 2 9 Arniston Rangers 10 1 1 3 4 11 1 2 2 6 11 -12 9 Downfield 8 1 1 2 7 6 1 1 2 8 8 1 8 Armadale Thistle 10 1 3 2 6 8 0 2 2 4 8 -6 8

GOLF

County golf fees unchanged for 2012

A

t the Annual General Meeting of Clackmannan County Golf Union held at Braehead Golf Club last week, the report for 2011 showed a satisfactory financial year---- probably considered very good in the present economic circumstances. It was agreed by the representatives present that the fees payable for the County events would be unchanged for another year. The entry fees for the County competitions represent good value when compared to green fees and give the County golfers a good opportunity to play the local courses and try for the prize vouchers. With no more than a few

miles travel within Clackmannanshire to reach a golf course, there is the added bonus of a low travel cost in these days of high fuel prices. The six Clubs in the County Golf Union would all welcome new members--perhaps a Golf membership is an ideal Christmas present … especially for new junior golf enthusiasts. Office bearers remain unchanged for 2012 President--- George Kay; Vice President --- Bill Hatley Secretary /Treasurer Tommy Johnson. Junior Convenor --- Sam Kinnaird Scottish Golf Union Representative -- Kenneth Ellacott.

Callum makes it through Golf Dinner W

ith a determined effort, Tulliallan’s Callum Macaulay made it through to the final qualifying for the 2012 European Tour. At the par 71 course at the El Valle resort in southern Spain, Callum finished in second equal position at his qualifying venue. With 20 qualifiers going forward to the final stage, it was easy for Callum thanks to two fine rounds of 66 in his four round, 11 under par total. (66, 71, 66, 71). Under the handicapping system used for Amateur golf, a 66 probably represented playing to a handicap of plus 8, and it shows just how high the standard is. Out of the 18 Scots in Stage two, only a few made it to

the difficult stage three…. none of them top Scottish amateurs from 2011. Callum will be up against a strong field with the exemptions containing many European Tour winners---- it will be a six round marathon with only 30 players or so gaining Tour cards for 2012 out of a field of around 150. Even then there is no guarantee of an entry for every European Tour event--- it’s a tough life. Tulliallan golfers and the rest of the county will be wishing him the best of luck at the PGA Catalunya resort from the 10th to the 15th December…… its par 72 stadium course measures just over 7200 yards--- out of the ten par 4’s, only two are under 400 yards.

rearranged

POOL

Week 11 Results A League:Alva Golf Club 1 Oakwood A 8 Locker Room B 5 Inn 4 Crown B 4 Crown A 5 Allanbridge 0 Locker Room A 9 Oakwood C 4 Peppes 5 B League:County 9 Hammies 0 Oakwood D 5 Upstairs 4 Rileys 7 Oakwood B 2 Cairn B 6 Weirs 3 Crosskeys 4 Cairn A 5

County Doubles

Sponsored by Oakwood Lounge Congratulations to David Ross/ Brian Corkhill, Barry Low/Trevor Kelly, Michael Polley/Grant Polley and Andra Taylor/Sean Harrison who have all qualified for the the last 8 finals night on Fri 20th Jan to be held in the Oakwood. Good luck to the remaining pairs ties taking place this week.

Graham Henny Memorial The highly successful Clackmannan County Golf dinner has been scheduled for Braehead Golf Club on the 2nd March--- tickets are very competitively priced at £22 and available from Tommy Johnson or Sam Kinnaird.

Sponsored by Crown Alva:-

Second leg ties of the prelim round ties were taking place this week also and full results with the last 16 draw will appear next week.

B League Cup (Jelly Memorial)

All B League teams are

reminded of this tournament with teams to arrange their own ties asap and the draw can be viewed at clackspool.net

Clackmannanshire/ Bannockburn Annual Xmas Singles

This popular annual tournament takes place next Sunday 18th Dec in Rileys Stirling with players either contacting Rileys to enter or be in venue before the 1pm start.

Scottish Seniors (Over 40’s)

Good luck to the Shire’s Pete Smith, Frank Jaffray, Andra Taylor and Sandra Bell who are all taking part in the latest Scottish tour event in Cumbernauld on Saturday.

Super 11’s Squads

The county selection committee have made their choices for all 3 county teams heading to both Craigtara and Pettycur Bay in March and players are urged to visit the web-site to confirm their availability asap.

Individual Membership 2012

The league have secured a healthy entry of 32 players for next year’s events and thank all players for their participation. Watch out for the draws coming soon on clackspool.net

34

weecounty

sport

Friday 9.12.11

RUGBY

Slow start costs Alloa Fife Southern RFC Alloa RFC

A

lloa have found it tough to pick up points in recent seasons from the short trip to Rosyth and this one was to prove no different. Alloa got off to a slow start despite having the advantage of a strong wind at their back

17 12

and quickly found themselves 8 points behind to a penalty and an unconverted try, albeit courtesy of a suspiciously looking forward pass. But they soon played their way back into the game when Donald Stewart, who was playing his final

match for the side after taking a decision to retire from the game, barged his way over from a quick tap penalty. Shortly before half time, Kris Aitken cleverly picked up from the base of a ruck on the Fifers line and squeezed through a gap

in the defensive line to complete a first half turnaround for a halt time lead of 8-12. However, the early setbacks were ultimately to prove costly as Alloa struggled to get out of their own half as they faced a strengthening wind and although defending manfully for 40 minutes Fife Southern capitalised on their territorial advantage to kick 3 second half penalties to seal a hard fought victory. Alloa now travel to another difficult venue where points have been scarce in recent trips when they face Blairgowrie on Saturday, 2pm KO.

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 Results Sat 3rd December Madras 26 : 3 Blairgowrie RFC Fife South 17 : 12 Alloa

Weekend Fixtures Sat 10th December Kinross

v Stirling Uni

Harris Acad FP

v Madras

Carnoustie HSFP v Fife South Blairgowrie RFC v Alloa

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 MIDLANDS Team

Played

GRANGEMOUTH STAGS RFC ST ANDREWS UNIVERSITY MADRAS RUGBY HARRIS ACADEMY FPRFC STIRLING UNIVERSITY RFC ALLOA KINROSS BLAIRGOWRIE RFC FIFE SOUTHERN CARNOUSTIE HSFP

10 10 11 10 10 10 10 10 11 10

W

D

10 9 8 8 5 3 3 3 2 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

L

T

he team who travelled to Howe enjoyed an entertaining afternoon out playing some scintillating rugby in the process. Foots., travelled to Cupar with 3 guest players so had the luxury of 2 substitutes, thank you guys. Once again we were up against a big pack but this didn’t phase the Foots., forwards who clearly won the forward battle and had more passes been held we should have been out of sight by half time. Shortly after kick off Graham Cree took a line out ’against the head ’ close to the Foots., line which led to a super handling movement almost to the Howe line where the ball was spilled. Howe made their first foray shortly after but winger Nick Binning stopped his man comprehensively leading to a turn over. Further turnovers in quick succession from Jason Morgan and Mike Kilbank stopped Howe in their tracks. Foots., first try was started and after assistance from the rest of the pack, was finished of by Ian Kelley. Davy Cree then made a good run and quick ball from the resultant ruck allowed Gregor Manson to dive over only for the ref to rule it a forward pass. This was repeated a few minutes later when Paul Slade went over only to be brought back.

Soon after Nick Binning went over for a try when Allan Steele won a line out ball close to the Howe line and the Foots., forwards put in a determined drive. Howes next sortie was halted by a brutal tackle from Mike Kilbank. Just before half time Jamie Murchie took a tap penalty, made a break and set in motion a brilliant handling movement which pinned Howe in their own 22 meters. Half time Howe 0 Foots., 2nds 10 Straight after the resumption, Foots., won a 5 yard scrum and Jason Morgan fed Mike Kilbank slickly, which allowed Mike to dive over for a try which was converted from wide out by Gregor Manson. Paul Bowyer was next on the scoreboard after a neat assist from Graham Simpson. Howe were proving more troublesome playing down the slight slope and finally breached the Foots., line to score a unconverted try. Foots., had to defend hard for the last quarter as Howe tried hard to wear them down with everyone doing their bit. Foots., scored a further two tries before full time , firstly Paul Slade won a ruck ball to power over for a try which Gregor Manson converted. Finally the forwards won a series of rucks which allowed Gregor Manson the space to go over for a

5 8 7 4 5 4 2 1 2 2

45 44 39 36 25 16 14 13 10 2

CALEDONIA DIV 1 RESULTS 3rd December Orkney P : P Glenrothes Gordonians 23: 17 Aberdeen Uni Hillfoots P : P Aberdeenshire Strathmore 3:3 Caithness Mackie Acad FP 19:13 Highland

Weekend Fixtures: Sat 10th December

try which he again converted. Final score, Howe 5 - Hillfoots 36 This was another strong performance and makes one wonder how much better, if at all,, we would be if we managed to get together a bit more at training.

Bonus Points

0 323:43 1 373:116 3 274:187 2 214:200 5 232:223 7 123:144 7 124:261 7 113:220 9 94:231 10 88:333

Strong performance by Foots., 2nd XV HOWE of FIFE 2nd XV 5 FOOTS., 2nd XV 36

F : A

Highland v Aberdeen Uni Gordonians v Caithness

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 Team

Played W

ABERDEENSHIRE HILLFOOTS RFC ORKNEY MACKIE ACADEMY FP STRATHMORE RFC HIGHLAND RFC GORDONIANS RFC GLENROTHES CAITHNESS RFC ABERDEEN UNIVERSITY RFC

FANZONE

12 12 12 13 12 11 11 12 11 12

10 8 7 7 4 6 3 3 4 2

D

L

0 1 0 0 3 0 1 2 2 1

2 3 5 6 5 5 7 7 5 9

F : A

278:142 282:196 282:259 291:277 178:193 203:222 247:267 189:286 170:210 250:318

Bonus

Points

7 6 7 7 3 3 7 4 1 7

47 40 35 35 25 23 21 20 17 12

weecounty sport

Friday 9.12.11

35

FOOTBALL

Wasps miss chance to go top Annan lost but Alloa failed to take the points

Cawley commits to Wasps

W

asps fans will be delighted to hear that manager Paul Hartley has agreed a new contract extention for Kevin Cawley (pictured left). Cawley, currently the Wasps top goal-scorer this season has agreed a new contract that will keep him at the Recs until the end of Season 2012/13. Both the manager and player wanted to agree a deal that would commit Cawley to the club and confirm the club’s intention to looking to secure promotion at the end of this season and return the club to playing again at a higher level of football.

Montrose 1 Alloa Athletic 1

A

lloa headed up the coast to take on Montrose, with a chance to go top of the Scottish 3rd division. Manager Paul Hartley added Ryan McCord to the team but his brother Ross was unfit due to a knock he picked up last week against East Stirling. Peter Innes was declared fit but couldn’t make the starting line up. The Wasps started with Robbie Winters and Kevin Cawley up front with Armand One dropping to the bench, with Ross McCord back into his favoured midfield role. Montrose added loan signing Lloyd Young to their starting line up, looking to cause as much trouble as the visitors as they could. It was the visitors however, who started the better side and should have taken the lead after 10 mins. Good play between Winters played in Holmes and with only the keeper to beat, he squared the ball to the in rushing Cawley but Montrose keeper Wood deflected his goal-bound shot from 8 yards wide. Still pressing, Winters then had a shot well saved from 18 yards as the Wasps looked to get that opening goal. The home side took a shock lead in the 15th min, Masson crossed for Scott Johnston to head home from 8 yards out. Scott Bain in the Alloa goal was called into action in the 21st min after Montrose front man Boyle raced through on goal, but the big keeper saved well from his weak shot. Both Cawley and Winters had good chances to get the visitors level but poor efforts where saved by Wood in the home goal. Boyle was causing the Wasps problems and he was unlucky not to put his team two up. His shot was parried by Bain for a corner as Montrose took the game to Alloa on the half time whistle. The second half was delayed for 10 mins due to flood light failure as both team struggled to keep warm in the freezing conditions. Alloa made a half time change with Mark McCullagh making way

New arrivals at the Recs

P

aul Hartley has added to the squad at Recreation Park by bringing two players on emergency loan deals until the end of January, 2012 – Kevin McHattie and Stevie May. Both players arriving at the Recs have Scottish Premier League experience - McHattie a 19 year old defender joins from Hearts who normally plays at left back. Also 19 years old, striker May, joins from St Johnstone. Both players are likely to be included in the squad for Saturday’s home game against Queen’s Park.

IRN BRU DIV 3 RESULTS Saturday 3rd December for young Kenny O’Brien who slotted into the left midfield berth with Mark Docherty moving into full back. It was the young under 19s star whose direct running gave Alloa hope and in the 53 min played in Holmes but his shot was parried for a Alloa corner. As the Wasps pressed, Winters was taken down on the 18 yard box and from the free kick O’Brien’s shot was just off target. Alloa where now on top in a very good spell for the visitors, Winters Cawley and Holmes were driving the Wasps forward with flair and pace, and it was Cawley who was played in by Winters but his shot was well saved by woods. Alloa brought on Armand One for Winters and the big front man had a chance to put the wasps level in the 77 min but his weak shot went narrowly wide. Kenny O’Brien won Alloa a corner in the 78th min and from Ryan McCords corner, Ben Gordon’s bullet header put Alloa level.

Alloa suffered a blow in the 85th min when Holmes clashed with Montrose keeper Wood and was replaced by Campbell. Alloa were now looking for a winner that would have taken them to the top of the league but found Wood in the Montrose goal in fine form. Montrose star man Boyle, had two chances to take the points for the home side but both his shots where well saved by Alloa keeper Bain. A host of missed chances for the Wasps, and some good saves by Alloa keeper Bain, kept both managers happy with a point each particularly with all other teams around them dropping vital points in the race for the title. Ray Farningham, Montrose Manager; “I can’t fault the attitude of my players they gave me 100%, a draw was a fair result.” Paul Hartley, Alloa Manager said; “We were the better side in the first half but Montrose had the better second half. Our keeper kept us in

the game and once again we come back from a goal down. I am happy with a point, we showed character today.”

Weekend Fixtures: Saturday10th December Alloa

v Queen’s Park

Annan Athletic v Montrose Clyde

v Elgin

Peterhead

v Berwick

Stranraer

v East Stirling

Berwick 0

Clyde 2 Sweeney (pen 25) Cusack (86)

East Stirling 1 Annan Athletic 0 Bradley Coyne (39) Elgin 1 Millar (9) Montrose 1 Johnstone (15)

Stranraer 1 Stirling (63) Alloa 1 Gordon (79)

Queen’s Park 1 Peterhead 1 Murray (82) McAllister (48)

Irn Bru Division 3: League Table ANNAN ATHLETIC ALLOA ELGIN STRANRAER BERWICK CLYDE QUEEN’S PARK MONTROSE EAST STIRLING PETERHEAD

Pld W 13 5 14 3 13 5 13 3 14 3 13 3 13 2 14 3 14 2 13 0

D 1 3 1 2 1 1 3 1 1 3

L 0 0 1 2 3 3 1 3 5 3

W 3 4 1 3 3 2 3 1 0 1

D 2 2 3 1 2 3 1 1 1 1

L GD Pts 2 11 27 2 2 26 2 9 22 2 9 21 2 4 21 1 7 19 3 0 19 5 -11 14 5 -21 8 5 -10 7

weecounty sport CAWLEY EXTENDS HIS CONTRACT AT THE RECS Page 35

Another Cup replay for Sauchie Sauchie Juniors 2 Neilston Juniors 2 By Mark Wallace

O

n a very cold, wintry afternoon, Sauchie played their third round Emirates Scottish Junior Cup match with Neilston at the Recreation Park, Alloa. Sauchie made one change from the team that beat Armdale two weeks ago, bringing in James Donaldson into the first eleven, in the place of Darren Cummings. Neilston brought with them a large vocal support, with even the appearance of Santa Claus taking time off from his busy schedule to watch the match from the stand. Sauchie started the first half under pressure from a strong Neilston team, who currently play in the West’s Central Division One. Neilston were the first team to open the scoring in the twenty third minute, with a corner kick poorly defended by Sauchie. The corner kick came straight across the box, unmet by the Sauchie defence and nodded in by the unmarked Matt Stevenson to make it one nil to the Farmer Boys.

Wee County News is registered at the Post Office and is published weekly, every Thursday by HUB Media Ltd., Suite 17, Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Tannochside Park, Uddingston G71 5PW. Printed by Newsquest, Cambuslang, Glasgow.

Ally Burns celebrates his goal. Keeping Sauchie in the cup. Sauchie managed to draw level after five minutes through good inter play between Donaldson and Bonnar, with the current club top scorer, Adam Bonnar beating O’Neil, in the Neilston goals, with his shot. Neilston, then went back onto the attack and within four minutes, they restored their lead. McDade crossed the ball into the Sauchie box only to be met by Steven Rennie who headed the ball past his own goalkeeper, Halliwell for an own goal. The first half ended with very little action in front of the goals from either team. Sauchie started the second half

brighter than they had ended it, however regardless of the amount of procession they enjoyed, there was very little outcome in terms of attempts at goals. On the fifty first minute, Purdie beat everyone in the box from a corner, only for his header to fly over the bar. Duncan, Sauchie’s manager, made his first change after eleven minutes of the second half, by bringing on Ally Burns, who has been missing for several weeks due to an injury, for Gary Carroll. This change proved to be successful after three minutes, when Burns pounced onto a missed ball from Neilston’s Murphy. Burns ran onto the ball and

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shot it passed the advancing Neilston goalkeeper. The game continued to be a hard fought tussle in deteriorating conditions, with neither team making either goalkeeper make a worthwhile save. Sauchie made two further substitutions with Cummings replacing Steven Rennie in the seventy second minute and then the return of Jon Tully who replaced Steven Bell four minutes later. The game ended with a sending off for Sauchie. Darren Cummings was given his second yellow card for a foul on the advancing Neilston left winger. Sauchie were able to see the

game ended level for the remaining few minutes with their ten men. The Neilston Manager, Robert Fox would have been the most disappointed of the two managers, feeling that his team had done enough to have won the match. Fraser Duncan stated that he felt that his team were very lucky to get another crack at the tie and will be hopeful of a better performance from his players. Sauchie now face a very difficult replay with Neilston at their own ground, Brig O’ Lea Stadium, this Saturday. For all the latest information reagrding this week’s game, then go onto www. sauchiejuniors.co.uk

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