The Wee County News - Issue 867 by Vicki O'Hare

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Tuesday 13.3.12 Issue 867

In this issue...

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SNP boost ahead of elections

Claremont Primary celebrate World Book Week

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Page 11

£2m on 211 homes

lackmannanshire council are investing £2m as part of a new energy efficiency initiative that will see 211 homes across the county benefit, resulting in cheaper utility bills for residents. The £2 million energy efficiency improvement programme involving 211 homes has kicked-off in the Bowmar Estate and Engelen Drive in Alloa. The works involve the installation of external insulated render to 191 homes, that is, adding a build up of insulation and render coatings on the outside of the existing concrete walls to the property. This will provide heating and energy conservation. Central heating is also being installed in 211 properties and loft insulation top up in approximately 154 houses. Garry Dallas, Director of Services to Communities, said : “All the work being undertaken is part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to promote energy conservation and efficiency with joint funding coming from Scottish Gas through the Community Energy Savings Programme (CESP).”

Continued on page 4

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With the approaching local elections, there is only one question, at least for the moment, that is on my mind, and it is this. If Labour retake control of the local council, will they reverse the SNP decision to reopen public toilets in Alloa? Quality Handmade Arrangements Surely that’s something they can answer before polling day? Order before 2pm for Same Day Service Anon Dear weecounty,

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Flowers around Local Reliable Company the corner or Flowers around corner or around the world, the Dear weecounty, around the world, I read with interest your article on our MSP from a single rose from a single rose and the pay out he received from the council. Why does the MSP not just tell us all where the to a magnificent to allasaymagnificent money went – he did after it was going to bouquet. a good cause. bouquet. Anon

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I would like to respond to Mr Scobbies’ letter of last week, whilst neither friend or foe Tel: 01259 723 988 Tel: 01259 760 037 of Councillor Carrick, I feel that he has been unjustly accused. Nominations for this month will close on March 24th and a winner will be announced on March 28th. The editors decision is final. It is no secret that the ward was ‘divided’ by Councillors in order to allow identification by the communities, and if Mr Scobbies’ ‘Invisible man’ concept were to be expounded, then the same title could be applied to other Councillors within the ward. However, Councillor Carrick’s involvement in Menstrie is not necessarily as ‘self imposed’ as it is made out. The majority of projects and initiatives in the village have been BIRTHDAYS at the instigation of, and initiated by, a very proactive Community only Council, supported by Councillors from all parties in various ways. It should be remembered that community councils are nonpolitical, voluntary organisations who work extremely hard for the benefit, well being and future of their communities. Surprise a friend or relative with a special birthday or Councillors should not be anniversary greeting in the WeeCounty News. criticised for supporting the Simply send in a suitable photograph together with communities that elected them, your remittance for £9.00 (inc. VAT) (cheques made but applauded for taking up the payable to HUB Media Ltd., by 4pm of the Wednesday wishes, demands and aspirations that the greeting is to appear or call 01259 404 006. from those communities, Name ............................................................................ Councillor Carrick has simply been Address......................................................................... doing his job. ...................................................................................... Regards, Les Sharp

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Tuesday 13.3.12

Residents anger over bus route closure By Alison Mann

lackmannan residents have hit out after learning they could lose a bus service that helps them go about their daily life. The Devonway and Mannan Drive bus services were highlighted by First Scotrail as having “very low passenger numbers” and proposals to withdraw the service have now been submitted to Clackmannanshire Council’s Traffic Commissioner for approval. However, many residents in Devonway are furious at the proposals. They also dispute the claim that there are very low passenger numbers and have started gathering signatures for a petition they intend to submit to the council. Devonway resident, Mrs.Janet Gray said: “I was shocked to hear that the Devonway bus is being taken off because it has been my lifeline in latter years. I can catch it at my house and get off at Clackmannan Health Centre for my doctor’s appointment. I also use it for shopping because it drops me at my door which is wonderful when I have heavy bags. “I was also surprised to hear that very few residents use the service – this just isn’t the case. A lot of residents will really miss this service and a number of them have already made this plain.”

Councillor Eddie Carrick, Sustainability Portfolio Holder, spoke about the changes: “First Scotland East have announced that they intend to alter their commercial Service 15 (Falkirk - Alloa - Stirling) to only operate between Falkirk and Alloa. This change, which comes into effect on 2nd April, will result in there being no service at all operating to the Bowhouse area of Alloa during the day on Mondays to Saturdays. In an attempt to provide a continued service to the adversely affected areas an assessment of the current Council subsidised services has been undertaken. “This assessment has revealed that a very low number of passengers use the no. 68 bus at Devonway. As there are at least four other regular bus services running through Clackmannan we have decided to alter the route of the 68 to serve the many bus users in the Bowhouse area. These proposed changes result from an in-depth analysis of existing services by our public transport staff and are considered to provide the best possible overall service provision in the circumstances.” Councillor Derek Stewart said: “I originally argued for a bus route into Devonway because around 50% of Devonway residents were elderly and unable to walk the distance to the bus stop on the main road. There is no less demand

Plans to stimulate economy approved By Alison Mann

ew initiatives designed to stimulate the local economy have been approved by Cackmannanshire Councillors. Councillors have agreed three economic stimulus initiatives which aim to unlock the county’s potential during these challenging economic times. These are in addition to a number of regular Council policies and actions designed to accelerate growth and create jobs. The first initiative will see the Council market three priority development sites in such a way as to invite viable development schemes within a given timescale. The sites earmarked for this pilot initiative are: the former Tullis site in Tullibody, the former site of Alva Academy and the site of the Tillicoultry Community Centre. Interested parties will be invited to submit realisable and well-designed development schemes for their proposed uses alongside associated community benefits

and the potential financial consideration. The second initiative will see the Council recycling the proceeds of sales from established property investments to service undeveloped business sites and potentially to acquire vacant, derelict or underused land or buildings in order to advance their early development. The Council has also agreed to establish a Spend to Save fund for capital projects. Bids will be sought for capital investment schemes that support economic development and can demonstrate that the additional capital financing costs will be more than off-set by reductions in ongoing running costs of existing services of facilities. Council Leader Gary Womersley said: “I am confident that these exciting new initiatives will boost the local economy in addition to the usual capital investment the Council delivers in order to improve the quality of life in local communities.”

Councillor Eddie Carrick, (left), and former provost Councillor Derek Stewart, (below).

News Brief A rocking night to raise funds for Hospice

for it now and I think the council administration will have a fight on their hands from the residents if they try and take it away now.” Scottish Labour Candidate for Clackmannanshire East said Kathleen Martin said; “It will be very sad if this bus service is taken off – many residents will struggle especially if they have difficulties in getting around; they will be forced to spend a fortune in taxis to get to and from where they are going”.

great music event will be held to raise money for Strathcarron Hospice. Top Bon Jovi Tribute band, Bad Name will be rocking their way into the Albert Halls, Stirling on March 31 for the charity event. Alloa band The Rising will be joining them for the night which will raise money for Strathcarron Hospice. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are priced at £12.50 and can be purchased from the box office on 01786 473 554, Tickets Scotland 0141 204 5151 or from Floral Gems, Alloa.

Holden joins SNP Former Independent switches over to SNP

lackmannanshire Independent Cllr. Craig Holden has joined forces with the SNP party it was announced yesterday. The former Clackmannanshire South Independent Councillor, intimated to Council staff and senior management that he had been re-admitted as a member of the SNP and that he would accordingly be considering himself to be an SNP Councillor and formally part of the SNP-lead Administration Group. Looking to get involved straight away, Craig has already joined his SNP colleagues in the Administration chambers at Greenfield. Speaking of his decision to join the SNP Group, Cllr. Holden commented:“Following recent discussions between myself and members of the SNP I am happy to confirm that I am now a member of the SNP Group at Clackmannanshire Council. “It has become clear to me over the last few months that the SNP Group are genuinely committed to doing what is best for Clackmannanshire and that is something which I can fully subscribe to. “There were never any major policy differences between us and recent discussions around the reopening of the public toilets in Alloa and this year’s Council budget simply reinforced the fact that we work well together. “I am looking forward to working with my SNP colleagues in the coming months and hope that together we can make a positive impact on Alloa and Clackmannanshire.” Speaking of Craig’s joining the party, SNP Depute

Leader, Cllr. Mark English said:“I’ve known Craig all my life – we grew up together and I am particularly pleased that he has recognised the merits in joining the SNP, having seen that we are the only creditable party to safeguard the interests of all Clackmannanshire residents. “Craig’s addition will only but enhance the team and I look forward to all working together as to what is best for Alloa and Clackmannanshire.” Backing up the comments, Council Leader Gary Womersley added:“For Craig to have joined the SNP at this time is welcome by myself and all of the Group. I was always of the view that the SNP had the best team for ‘Taking Clackmannanshire Forward’ – now with Craig as part of the team, that dynamic is just reinforced all the more. I think this will be well received by anyone who has the genuine interest of Clackmannanshire at heart.” Cllr Holden was previously in the SNP between 1999 – 2006 where he left the party due to disagreements with the leader at that time.

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Tuesday 13.3.12

Continued from page 1 The Council, as part of the Transforming Communities Regeneration Programme, are investing more than £1 million in the programme. The remaining funding is coming from Scottish Gas as part of their CESP commitment, an initiative that aims to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating bills for vulnerable households across the UK. Central Heating Delivery Manager for Scottish Gas, John Adie, said: “There is no upheaval to any of the residents. All the joinery, boiler installation and heating work is done within a day. Everything is cleaned up and the residents have their property in perfect condition to enjoy their new heating system.” Michael Beveridge, of 8 Mull Court, Alloa, who lives there with his mother Violet, are one of the first residents to enjoy the benefits of the new heating installation. Michael said: “I’m delighted with the service. We’ve noticed a big difference in the heating already. They’ve done a great job.” “I am still getting used to the new system with how it works but I can see already that it is far better than the old set up.” The programme is being fully managed by Scottish Gas. A designated site office and show home has been set up at 17 Harris Court, where residents can get more information or assistance and can also see the full completed work, including the central heating system, high efficiency boiler and the new external cladding, finished to an extremely high standard. The external rendering work, which is approximately 100 millimetres thick, is done by mechanically fixing 90mm thick insulation boards to the outside of the house, before the cement works, including mesh reinforcing

Banks to run half marathon

he Wee County’s MP will get his running shoes on this weekend as he takes part in the Alloa Round Table Half Marathon. Gordon Banks, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, has been preparing to take part in the event held on Sunday, March 18. Gordon has previously taken part in the 2010 marathon with his daughter Victoria and her boyfriend Lewis Gall. Victoria will be joining him again this year. Gordon has been training in recent months for the 13.1 mile run - to improve his stamina and hopefully his time this year. Gordon Banks MP said: “I’m looking forward to this year’s half-marathon – it will be a big challenge of course. My first objective is to complete the run, and my second is to do it in less than two hours. “I’m hoping that the weather will hold-up for the run, which would of course help things a great deal, not only for the runners but also the crowds of spectators who usually turn-up on the day. “There is always a really good atmosphere and I’m sure everyone will have a great time again this year.”

Michael Beveridge and John Adie and dry dash chips, in either honey or white, are added to finish off the home. Michael McInally and his wife Isabel, of 2 Mull Court, also expressed their delight at the work completed in their home. Mr McInally said: “All the heating work was done in the one day. They’ve done an efficient job. They were really pleasant, and already we’ve noticed a big difference in the bills, they’ve virtually halved from what they were previously.” Talking to the Wee County News, Mr McInally said; “The old air system was either on or off, there was no middle ground. “It was also really bad for condensation, which at times would see my front door stuck in cold weather as the condensation had frozen. “I am really happy with the works

and I have started to really notice it in my pocket.” The works started at the beginning of February this year, and 10 new central heating

systems are installed each week. The new external insulation work takes between three and four weeks. The project is expected to run through until October.

Stubb out and live longer National No Smoking Day on Wednesday March 14

lackmannanshire smokers are being asked to stubb out their last ciggie and quit smoking for good. This could mean they live an average of ten years longer – this is one of the messages being reinforced through National No Smoking Day on Wednesday March 14 which in this, the year of the Olympics, is encouraging people to Take the Leap and quit for good. There are still more than one million adult smokers in Scotland, accounting for around 25% of adults. 69% say they would like to stop smoking. Almost one in five smokers in Scotland using NHS support to give up were aged 60 or over.

Figures prove that people are more likely to stop smoking for at least a month if they use a combination of stop smoking services and products, rather than going it alone. From January to December 2011 staff in Forth Valley supported 719 men and 995 women to quit smoking. NHS Forth Valley Smoking Cessation Co-ordinator Joanne O Suilleabhain said: “I appreciate that giving up tobacco is very difficult for many people. But so much help is available now. Not only could you save a shed load of money but you can feel much better in yourself and be much more healthy. This is the year of the

Olympics – giving up smoking might not make you a top-class athlete but it will make you a winner in all sorts of other ways. What an achievement!” Health promotion teams in Forth Valley will be setting up stalls in shopping centres and supermarkets in Falkirk Stirling and Alloa, and in WRVS cafes in the area’s three community hospitals. They will also be based in the main entrance to Forth Valley Royal Hospital, at the entrance to the Women and Children’s Unit and at the staff entrance. In addition, resource packs are being sent to GPs, pharmacists and dental practices, prisons and workplaces.

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weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

Council to build new houses in Tillibody

Left to Right: Gordon Fullarton – Construction Manager Hadden Construction, Scott Hadden- Chairman Hadden Construction, Councillor Eddie Carrick- Sustainability Purfolid Haider, Councillor Gary Womersley- Council Leader, Ross Thomson-Howins Project Co-ordinater By Alison Mann

he ground will be broken soon on the patch of land where 16 new houses will be built in Tullibody. Work will begin on the £1.9 million project at The Orchard in late March, early April. The former Dalmore Centre, Alva will also be converted into five amenity houses for the elderly and four new flats will be build within the centre’s grounds. The first phase of the development, which will lead to the provision of high quality, new affordable housing, will see the demolition of existing disused garage blocks at the site, accessed off The Orchard, between St Bernadette’s R.C. Primary School and four four-in-ablock style homes in Tullibody.

The launch of the demolition work of the garages in Tullibody on 7th March will be attended by both Council Leader, Councillor Gary Womersley and Sustainability Portfolio Holder, Councillor Eddie Carrick. Councillor Womersley said: “The last council houses built for rent in Clackmannanshire was back in the 1980’s, so the demolition of these garages is a very significant step towards our commitment to providing high quality, new affordable housing.” The development of the Orchard site is part of a larger new build housing programme, which also includes the development of the Dalmore Centre site in Alva. Councillor Carrick added: “These new homes are

essential for the people of Clackmannanshire. They are just the first step towards addressing the imbalance we face between genuine housing needs and the availability of Council houses.” The total cost of the development is £1,942,296.55, with the cost of the Orchard site part of the project being £1,084,086.33. The demolition will take place during the course of this week and it is hoped that construction work will begin on the site at the end of March / beginning of April. The works on the Orchard site will run concurrently with the works on the Dalmore Centre site and are expected to last around 28 weeks with completion due in the early October.

Have your say on patient care C

lackmannanshire residents could have the opportunity to improve patient care and experience in acute hospital services in NHS Forth Valley. There is now a major recruitment drive underway to boost membership of the Patient Public Panel, a group of volunteers who gather patient views, get involved in cleaning checks and make sure that Forth Valley Royal Hospital is ‘person-centred’ for patients, public and staff. The full Panel meets four times a year but there are various sub groups. For example, a leaflet task group makes sure information is user-friendly, and a website group keeps details up to date. Other member’s check whether the hospital is maintaining its sparkle, and work with the facilities provider Serco to carry

out domestic audits and observe general standards of cleanliness. Some Panel members have trained as Patient Experience Champions and work with ward staff to collect feedback on patients’ experience. Patient Public Panel Coordinator Lesley Sherwood said: “This is an excellent opportunity to make your voice heard in shaping the future of health services in our area. It’s very important that members of the Panel feel confident and happy in their role so an experienced member of the Patient Public Panel will support you until you find your feet. But the rewards are enormous. Several PPP members have indicated personal benefits such as an improved sense of worth, enhanced mental health, enjoyable social contact, structure to their

week and feeling valued by staff.” All new members go through a recruitment and induction process and relevant training is provided. Travel costs and any other relevant expenses such as for carers, will be reimbursed. If you need special help to participate, all our meeting rooms are wheelchair accessible and have hearing loops. Interpreters can also be provided and we do our best to accommodate any cultural needs. You would be expected to participate in at least one or two meetings a month and some reading preparation will be required. Anyone interested should contact: Lesley Sherwood, Patient Focus Public Involvement (PFPI) Co-ordinator on 01324 678557 or by email: lesley. sherwood@nhs.net.

Refuse services top performers

orkers from the refuse collection service were congratulated by Councillors at this week’s Council meeting. The refuse collection service were finalists in the best performer category at the annual Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) performance network awards. Council Leader Gary Womersely congratulated the service on this achievement and added: “It is a pleasure to draw your attention to a service that touches every household in Clackmannanshire and contributes so much to the environmental credentials that we are so proud of. “Our refuse collection service has shown year-onyear improvement operating in sometimes difficult conditions to efficiently handle over 2 million customer visits every year. “Often the refuse collection service goes

unnoticed as the workers go about their daily business on our behalf making sure our environment is protected and enhanced. “Refuse collection delivers a public service in a rapidly changing environment as we move towards a vision of a Zero Waste Scotland and turn our back on the throw-away society. Throughout all this change, our employees in refuse collection have maintained a dependable and reliable service to our communities. “Not only has the service adapted to this change, it has also continuously improved its efficiency and is a leading example that Clackmannanshire Council is effective, efficient and recognised for excellence. “At a time of increasing demand on public services it is very reassuring to see Clackmannanshire Council rising to the challenge.”

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Tuesday 13.3.12

Alison Mann

You cant beat a Sunday climb.... I am sitting in a rather dull Alloa with my face on fire and unable to walk without every muscle in my body hurting. I took a trip to Glen Doll on Sunday and climbed two Munros – Mayar and Driesh. It was a spectacular day and a truly excellent climb. I left Glasgow bright and early and arrived at Glen Doll around 7am to bright and sunny weather, if a little windy. This part of the Cairngorms is owned by the Forestry Commission so the walk was well pathed and sign posted, which is always nice. The walk took me up a gentle incline, through the

forest and to a plateau which allows walkers to walk either to the summit of Mayar or Driesh. I opted to walk to Mayar first, mainly because it looked the flattest! It was pretty flat towards the summit until I got near the top which involved a steep incline. I even saw a snow hare which was wonderful. The weather was so clear and sunny that the view from the top was incredible, I could see out to the North Sea and over the peaks of the Cairngorms. On my way back I saw a ptarmigan which still had its snow feathers, it didn’t even

run away so I managed to get a few snaps of the unusual bird. After Mayar I decided to climb to the summit of Driesh, although it was quite a bit steeper the brilliant weather made it enjoyable to climb. From Driesh the view was also amazing and I relaxed at the top before turning back and down the rocky path. I arrived back at the car park in pretty good time but with a completely sunburnt face and aching legs. Walking up Mayar and Driesh has to be one of my favourite routes and I’d definitely recommend it if there happens to be a sunny day forecast.

Just a note to our readers to inform you all that I am leaving the Wee County News and going to work for a Glasgow-based publication, so this will be my final column. During my time at the Wee County News, I have enjoyed meeting and working with the people of Clackmannanshire and wish the Wee County News all the best in the future. Cheerio!

WE ARE IN ALLOA Come and visit us at 38 Primrose Street

HAVE YOUR SAY

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

The Wee County News is delighted to print the latest monthly short story from the Alloa Writers Club. Alloa Writers meet on the second and fourth Mondays monthly in Resonate Arts House, Unit 3A North Castle Street Alloa between 7 & 9 pm. All writers welcome.

Feet First, by Derenz

y supervisor had given me an ultimatum, either work next weekend or you’re out of a job. ‘Well Fiona, you’ve done it this time,’ I said to the mirror. I stared at the smudged makeup and wondered how my good fortune had so quickly become a pile of tear soaked tissue. It was hard to believe that only six weeks had passed since those wonderful words, ‘Congratulations Miss Paterson, the position is yours. If you’d like it?’ If I’d like it, a permanent nine-to-five job and he was asking me if I’d like it. I was so excited I had to hold myself back from running round the desk and kissing the owner’s balding head. On the spot his PA typed my name on a company contract. I couldn’t believe my luck, so I signed immediately.

On the bus home I planned evenings and weekends. I would replenish my makeup, design funnier costumes, work-up new scripts. I stopped at the phone box and shared the good news with my agent. Within weeks I had the deposit and first month’s rent for this bed-sit and I had several bookings for my private passion performing as Mr Bagalugs a children’s entertainer. Yet all I had worked for was now under threat. I sat hunched in my chair, theatrical make-up half on. My eyes scanned the calendar, and the bookings I would have to cancel. I imagined disappointment in the eyes of little faces. And dreaded being dropped by my agent. I stared hard at the clown in the mirror. ‘You landed face down this time Fiona

Paterson,’ Mr Bagalugs said, and shook his chalky face. ‘I know,’ I replied and looked away. Chair tipped back, hands clasped at my mouth I caught sight of a fly struggling to free itself from a web. The jeering voice of my supervisor jangled in my head - ‘In a contract every word counts, particularly the small print. It clearly states, weekend work… They did give you a chance to read it, didn’t they?’ They had. But I hadn’t. At the time there seemed no need. The boss had made no mention of working weekends and from what I knew of the job it was a regular nine to five. I reached for the contract, stuck two fingers in the jar of rouge and spread a dollop across the front page. I stared at the mess and sighed. Then thinking better

of it wiped the paper as best I could. All I had ever wanted was to be a children’s entertainer. I thought of the temporary jobs I had taken to fit round my passion. Now, instead of having permanent free evenings and weekends, I’d have to work a month’s notice – four bookings lost – and I couldn’t resign, without a job to go to. I had rent to pay. The steelwork’s hooter blew across the derelict factory. From the skylight I watched a battered white van leave the site. I visualised a jostle of ghosts - redundant workers - their route to the gatehouse still mottled with spat gum. ‘Come on Fiona,’ I said, turning away, ‘you’ve a children’s party at six and it’s already five thirty.’ As I reached for black grease paint, the sleeve of my gown caught the edge

of the make-shift table. Sticks of face-paint, lippy, hairbrushes, wigs, perfume and sprays clattered to the floor. And, as if reaffirming my stupidity, my work’s contract fluttered down, to top the heap. ‘Right I’ve had it. I give in. Whatever I did in my former life, I’m sorry.’ I shook my feet free from the debris, hoyed up the table-top and returned it to its stand, then switched on the light. The spider ran for cover. As I bent down to retrieve the table’s contents I wondered what had happened to the fly. Finally I scooped up my contract and thumbs together made ready to tear it to shreds. That’s when a line of print caught my eye. No employee shall work weekends…. Puzzled I turned it over, … until they have gained a First Aid certificate approved by the Company.

‘Yes, yes…’ I yelled, and read on. I couldn’t believe it. I have no First Aid certificate. So whatever my supervisor says, to work weekends would be a dismissible offence. ‘Yeeees,’ I whooped, and kissed the contract. Then I smoothed the pages, tucked them into the side pocket of my work bag and zipped it shut. Quickly I sorted the contents of the table, chanting as I worked ‘Small print, small print, read the small print’. After freezing my grin long enough to give the vacantfaced Mister Bagalugs a smiley make over, I leapt up. And the silky, sleeved arms of my favourite clown wrapped me in a hug and twirled with me across the floor. Peep per eep peep. Dizzy with excitement, I grabbed my sports bag of outsize feet and descended on air to the taxi in the street.

weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

4 medals for Forth Valley Boccia team By Alison Mann

Medal winners from left to right: Lee Duncan, Alloa Academy, Ben McLucky, Alloa Academy, Cameron Duncan, St.John’s Primary, Tommy Rutherford from Falkirk.

Class Cuisine for councillors visit

hree talented Clackmannanshire sports people brought back medals after competing in the Scottish Boccia Championships 2012. The event was organised by Scottish Disability Sport and held at the Peak Sports Village in Stirling. The event attracted adults and young people from across Scotland. 13 individuals from Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire had qualified to represent in the Forth Valley Team in the Junior LD section, of which 7 of the team hailed from Clackmannanshire All of the Forth Valley team played well on the day. For three players from St Bernadette’s Primary School in Tullibody: Sean Reid, Ewan Mortimer and Liam McGeaphie, this was their first major competition after qualifying from the regional championship in November which is hosted by Clackmannanshire Council. Boccia is an increasingly popular sport in Clackmannanshire and forms the introduction

to a lawn bowling programme delivered in conjunction with local bowling clubs. Four medals were won by members of the Forth Valley team, of which three came from Clackmannanshire: Ben McLuckie, Alloa Academy, Open Class, bronze Lee Duncan, Alloa Academy, Plate, bronze Cameron Duncan, St Johns PS, Open, silver Claire Morrison, Scottish Disability Sport and Scottish Boccia head coach said: “ The quality of play from the youngsters and knowledge of the game was very high. It is also very encouraging to see new faces taking up the sport. I hope that from this event, win or lose, the players will be inspired to push themselves to the next level.” Lee and Cameron are also members of the Right on Target Boccia Club which meets at Alloa Academy on Thursday evenings. If anyone would like to try the sport of boccia or would like more information contact Jean Duncan, Active ASN Co-ordinator on 01259 452350, or by emailing jduncan@clacks.gov.uk

CROSSWORD COMPETITION WINNER LAST WEEKS CROSSWORD ANSWERS

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nquisitive Clacks councillors took a tour of the county’s local catering service this week and met its hard working staff. Council leader, Councillor Gary Womersley, lead a tour of Class Cuisine to his fellow councillors on March 7, allowing them to see the work that takes place in preparing the food. The catering service, based in Sauchie, make and provide

“We are delighted that paid for school meals will remain at £1.60 for the eighth year on a row, and in addition, school children on the county are set to enjoy the benefits of breakfast clubs which are opening in our schools shortly, one of the key policy announcements at the last month’s budget.” Clackmannanshire is the first council in Scotland to offer a range of delicious dinners, frozen and delivered to your door when it was started in November 2010 and lit the way for other councils to do the same. This local service is available to everyone and the delivery is free of charge to people living in Clackmannanshire. The individual frozen meal service is also being provided by Class Cuisine, also used by Clackmannanshire Council as their local catering service, also proving for local schools and for meals on wheels.

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weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

Craigbank primary pupils MP expresses sadness enjoy world book fair week over death of friend Former Menstrie man dies in Nova Scotia

By Megan Spence

upils at Craigbank Primary, Sauchie, enjoyed a variety of fun activities organised to promote enjoyment of reading during the annual Book Fair last week. Activities included a book swap, class novels, interactive ICT challenges,

dramas linked to novels, drawing comic strips, producing an array of associated artwork and much, much more. The librarians from Alloa Library also visited classes and shared popular stories with them. On Friday 9th March lots of pupils and teachers at the school took part in the

fun by dressing up as a character from a book. All pupils were also set the challenge of creating a “Book Bag” with drawings and clues to represent their favourite book. Pupils put a tremendous effort into both competitions with the winners choosing a free book from the Book Fair.

ordon Banks MP has expressed his sadness upon hearing the news of the death of his friend, Ian Russell who died unexpectedly last week in Digby, Nova Scotia. In a tragic turn of events, Ian’s wife Marjorie is now critically ill in hospital herself after suffering a heart attack in the days following the death of her husband. Ian and Marjorie Russell, former residents of Menstrie, had emigrated to Nova Scotia in 2003 where Ian developed a great interest in the founder of Nova Scotia, Sir William Alexander of Menstrie. Ian said he guessed that “destiny had played a hand”, and he became heavily involved in strengthening social, cultural, business and community relations between Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia. Gordon and Ian had a friendship that spanned over many years, beginning when they met through a mutual passion for rally driving, and latterly as both were committed to working together to build a partnership between Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia. In recent years, Gordon paid a very successful visit to Nova Scotia as an ambassador for Clackmannanshire, laying the ground for the next step. Gordon Banks said; “I was deeply saddened by the death of Ian Russell.

We have known each other for many years and were very good friends. Ian and Marjorie had been making preparations for their return to the area in June this year in celebration of their 40th wedding anniversary. Ian will be a great loss, to his many friends and to all those who want to forge links between Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia and it would be a fitting tribute to Ian for others to continue these moves that will hopefully result in a formal partnership between the two. As well as knowing each other for many, many years, Ian, since moving to Nova Scotia developed a political interest and had a network of friends and contacts up to and including First Ministers of Nova Scotia. He will be sadly missed by his many new friends in Nova Scotia and of course all of those who knew him in this area. Only last week we exchanged emails and to hear this tragic news in the following days was a real shock. That Marjorie should also become seriously ill is quite unbelievable and everyone is thinking about her at this tragic time. I hope she makes a full recovery and have no doubt she will receive all the support needed from her many friends.”

Employee wellbeing plan at council T

he Council has approved a new policy which aims to promote employee wellbeing, and in doing so reduce absence levels. The Maximising Attendance and Employee Wellbeing Policy was agreed by councillors at the Council meeting on Thursday. Council Leader Gary Womersley said: “Our people are crucial to our ability to provide high quality, cost effective services to our customers and as such we are committed to ensuring their continued wellbeing and attendance at work.”

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The meeting heard that management and trade unions have been working closely together over the past two years to address absence across the organisation, taking a more proactive approach to supporting staff to get back to work. This has resulted in absence rates reducing from 5.4% in 2006/07 to 3.4% to date. Pam Robertson JTUC secretary said: “The Trade Unions are happy to work with the Council to produce a policy which supports staff and management.”

Review of leisure and sport across the Wee County

programme of consultation which will shape the future of leisure and sport in Clackmannanshire is set to begin. Councillors agreed that the consultation take place at their meeting on 8th March. The meeting was presented with a draft Main Issues Report which sets out the current position, considers key priority outcomes and suggests objectives and targets that could be included in a finalised strategy. The draft Main Issues Report identifies key priorities from the Single Outcome Agreement that an enhanced leisure strategy can support: addressing poor health in sections of the population

and enhancing the quality of peoples’ lives. Councillor Mark English, Inclusion Portfolio Holder, said: “Participating in sport can bring many benefits, particularly for children, raising their confidence, advancing their leadership skills as well as bringing health and proven educational benefits. In the wider context, sport and leisure can help to engender a sense of community and a pride in Clackmannanshire. “This draft Main Issues Report recognises where we are at the moment. Our Sports Development Service is nationally recognised as leading provider of early years sports coaching in schools and we have a lot of successful sports clubs in

Clackmannanshire, with a high participation rate. “We are now going to consult with all stakeholders, partners and the wider community to find out what they want the Council to do and how we can work in partnership in the future.” More information about the consultation, which will run until June, will be available soon. The aim of the consultation is to secure views on the suggested priorities and approaches to the provision of leisure and sport in Clackmannanshire by specifically asking key questions about provision. A final leisure and sport strategy will come before Council in the autumn.

weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

Talent on show at Stirling Castle T

alented staff members at Stirling Castle will this month be showing off their skills at a special exhibition. Throughout the month of March, visitors to the castle can experience a special exhibition that showcases the hidden talents of the castle’s staff. Exhibits will range from artwork and photography through to crafts, dance and tapestry. The event is part of the ‘Year of Creative Scotland’ which is designed to promote and encourage people to celebrate our nation’s contribution to culture. It follows a number of exciting events at the castle including the hugely successful Artist in Residence programme, which saw the castle appoint its very own artist, Iona Leishman. Initially due to end in December, the programme was extended to the end of March due to demand. Gillian MacDonald, Executive Manager for Stirling Castle said: “We have a very skilled team at the castle and this exhibition is a fantastic way to showcase their work. “There are some lovely personal stories behind the artwork. One of our team for example was inspired to learn more about tapestry on the back of the Palace Project, where we introduced a studio on site to recreate the tapestries that would have hung in the royal apartments. “It’s lovely that the stunning surroundings of the castle can inspire people to take up a new interest as well as providing a backdrop for their works and we look forward to welcoming visitors to the exhibition.” The event will be taking place in the castle’s exhibition room and will be included in the admission price to Stirling Castle. For more information on Stirling Castle please visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk.

Clackmannanshire welcomes Sport Relief By Michelle Henderson

uper fit Clackmannanshire locals will have the opportunity to take part in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile for the first time as the charity event comes to the area on Sunday March 25. The event does need local people to come together and show their support by entering now. Sport Relief is one of the UK’s largest fundraising events, which brings the entire nation together to get exercise, raise cash and change people’s lives. The event is taking place at Lornshill Academy’s running track and is set to be an incredible event. Participants do not have to be sporty to take part, but will have to choose to complete 1, 3 or 6 miles. All the money raised is going to help change lives of people living unbelievably tough lives right here on our doorsteps, in the UK and across the world in other poor countries. Sport Relief has a unique history of very dedicated people doing amazing things to

achieve the challenge. David Williams started sport relief last September and got off to an amazing start by completing the BT Sport relief challenge. Despite being ill with a bug and facing extraordinary cold water, David swam an amazing 140 miles, so far raising over £1 million. There will be more amazing celebrity challenges planned to get the whole nation geared up for the Sport Relief weekend. This amazing weekend starts off on Friday, March 23 and this involved everyone starting to get active at home, work or school, before watching the Sport Relief event on BBC 1. There will also be coverage from BBC radio, television and online over the weekend to keep you entertained. By the end of the weekend everyone will be feeling hyped to get involved and this is when the whole nation comes together to take part in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday, March 25. Council Leader Gary Womersley said: “The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile at Lornshill Academy is here and it’s your time to shine. I’m delighted that 35 local people have

already entered, but we want that number to increase significantly. And if you want to come along in fancy dress, even better. From teeny-tots with their mums and dads, to super sprinters up against the clock there’s something for everyone on the big day. This is the first Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile in Clackmannanshire and it’s set to be a great event. So come on, pull your Sport Relief socks up, enter the Mile and do something amazing!” To enter the Wee County Mile and take part visit Sportrelief.com.

Music and words to help mental ill health recovery

N evening of words and music celebrating recovery from mental ill health is to take place in Alloa later this month. The event, which will be an uplifting evening of poetry, music and short stories, will be held in D’Nisi Coffee Shop, High Street, Alloa, on Wednesday, March 21, from 6.30-8.30pm. The event will be hosted by Rosa McPherson, locally renowned for her creative writing. Becky Duff, of See Me, the main funders of this event, will introduce the See Me campaign. The audience will have opportunity to enjoy the talents of singer/ songwriter, Gifford Lind, of the New Makars Trust, who will perform songs of people who have recovered from mental health problems.

Space is limited and on a “ticket only basis” so it is advised to get your tickets in advance of the event, priced £3. The price of the ticket also includes a finger buffet and refreshments. This is a partnership event hosted by Klacksun, our local service user network, with funding from See Me, in partnership with Clackmannanshire Council and NHS Forth Valley. Tickets are available from James Mackenzie on 01259 215048. Tickets can also be obtained at Alloa Food and Wine, High Street, Alloa, (opposite D’Nisi). For further information telephone James or contact him on jmackenzie@clacks.gov.uk.

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weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

No ID, No Sale

Labour plan to demolish Alva Glen hotel

Left to right; Emma Doig, Gordon Banks MP, Tony Doig, Shop Manager Mrs. Elizabeth Sullivan.

he Wee County’s MP has called on local retailers to support the ‘No ID, No Sale!’ campaign which seeks to ensure that only adults can buy lottery, tobacco and other agerestricted goods. Gordon Banks, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire was speaking at Premier Number One in Alloa, where he was joined by Shop Manager Mrs. Elizabeth Sullivan. The Ochil and South Perthshire MP said that following the UK government’s decision to abolish National ID cards, schemes such as CitizenCard were essential. Proprietors face a fine of up to £10,000 if caught persistently selling restricted products to under18s More than two million CitizenCards have been issued across the UK since the scheme was launched by then Home Office Minister George Howarth in February 1999.

Gordon Banks MP said: “I already have 508 CitizenCard cardholders in my constituency but I am urging all young adults in Clackmannanshire to obtain a CitizenCard or YoungScot Card that contains the police-endorsed PASS hologram. “Only then can retailers fully implement the ‘No ID, No Sale!’ policy which allows adults to buy whatever they wish whilst ensuring that children cannot buy alcohol, tobacco and other restricted goods.” Mrs. Elizabeth Sullivan Manager of Premier One in Alloa, said: “We have no wish to supply cigarettes or age-restricted products to children and we offer our younger customers a CitizenCard form which means they can prove their age. Every week we face dozens of attempts to buy tobacco by young people and if they cannot present valid ID we always refuse the sale.”

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By Alison Mann

ith council elections fast approaching, Labour candidates have pledged to demolish the unsightly Alva Glen Hotel if elected back into power in May. Scottish Labour’s Clackmannanshire Local Government Candidates have made a commitment in their 2012 Manifesto -Delivering in Partnership – to demolish the Alva Glen Hotel, the eyesore that has plagued Alva’s Main Street for years. The deterioration in condition and appearance of the 200 year old building has been of concern for many years now to residents of Alva and to their elected members. The Labour Group

had previously set aside £100,000 in their budget that they would have put through in February, had they been the administration, to deal with the crumbling building. The Alva Glen Hotel which dates back to the early 1800’s and has been used as numerous different things over the years, however lately it has fallen it to a state of disrepair. Scottish Labour Candidates are making this commitment, which will mean initiating legal proceedings and providing the necessary funds to allow for the demolition of the Alva Glen Hotel which has long been a blight on the beautiful Hillfoots landscape. Scottish Labour Councillor and

local government candidate Bobby McGill said: “This is evidence of our ongoing commitment to promoting Clackmannanshire as a place for tourists to visit – and most importantly – to finally rid the residents of Alva of this derelict old building which has long had a negative impact on the visual amenity of the area. We will provide the necessary funding to initiate the legal proceedings and progress the demolition.” Alva resident, Charles Paterson said: “I welcome the announcement from Scottish Labour that they will demolish this eyesore. It is in such a state of disrepair. This is the best thing that could happen and then the land can be used for new development.”

Ghana farmers visit college

wo cocoa farmers from Ghana were guests of honour at Forth Valley College’s first ever Celebration of Fairtrade event this week (Tuesday 6 March). Martin Rhodes, Director of The Fair Trade Forum Scotland was delighted to bring Elias Mohamed (55) and Agnes Armah (34) - both sponsored by Divine Chocolate - along to Scotland’s first Fairtrade College so they could share their fascinating story with around 70 delegates, in the middle of Fairtrade Fortnight 2012 (27 February – 9 March). Falkirk Council Provost Pat Reid joined representatives from all five of the Falkirk area’s Fairtrade schools – Kinnaird, St Andrews, Bowhouse and Bo’ness Public Primary Schools and St Mungo’s High School – at the morning conference and delegations from several more local schools, who are hoping to attain the status soon, attended the event. Iris Aitchison, FVC Fairtrade Co-ordinator, said: “The presentation from Martin

CELEBRATION OF FAIRTRADE: (From left to right) Elias Mohamed, Iris Aitchison, Agnes Armah, Martin Rhodes, Kathleen Underhill FVC Student Union President, Linda McKay FVC Principal. Rhodes was inspirational and the cocoa producers - Elias and Agnes - talked us through some fascinating slides of how the cocoa beans are converted into delicious chocolate and how Fairtrade has changed their lives. The film showing what the local schools are doing with Fairtrade status was so popular that we had to show it twice! “Our first Celebration of Fairtrade event has been a great success and has helped to promote Fairtrade across a number of organisations in Forth Valley. Over a delicious lunch prepared by the

college’s Hospitality learners, the delegates were able to share ideas and experiences of how they have embedded Fairtrade into their schools and organisations.” Martin Rhodes, Director of the Fair Trade Forum Scotland, said: “I was delighted to have been a part of Forth Valley College’s Celebration of Fairtrade. It shows how lots of schools and Scotland’s first college with Fairtrade status have worked together to become an important part of the campaign to make Scotland Fair Trade.

“Elias and Agnes – the Fairtrade producers who came along to give their own presentation enjoyed themselves very much and I’m sure the event will encourage and inspire other schools and organisations to strive towards gaining their own Fairtrade status.” Delegates from Fairtrade groups from Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire also participated and invitations were accepted by representatives from all three local authorities in Forth Valley. Sponsors, supporters and stall holders at the event included: Divine Chocolate, The Co-op, Scotmid, Matthew Algie, Oh So Scrumptious, Fair Tradewinds (Linlithgow), ARCO (Workwear), Falkirk Fairtrade Steering Group, Falkirk Fairtrade Forum and Falkirk Council. Forth Valley College students from the Hospitality Section produced and served the food and drinks available on the day and Creative Industry students filmed and recorded the presentations.

weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

Claremont celebrate World book week

s part of World Book Week Primary 6H demonstrated their skills as ‘young leaders’ in organising a variety of events as well as running the School Book Fair. On Friday, children dressed up as a character from a book and the school held an assembly and a book character parade showing off their creativity and hard work. There was everything from Where’s Wally? to Winnie the Pooh and even a bejewelled Cleopatra!

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strategies will be. 5 CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET. There are low cost ways of advertising within the weecounty news, and you don’t need premium spots to accomplish your goals. Most businesses spend about 2 to 5% of their gross sales on advertising. If yours is a new business, you can project this figure from what you anticipate your sales will be. 6 DETERMINE COST PER AD. Multiple smaller ads are more effective than one big ad that could eat into your entire budget. Many successful businesses run solely off of classified ads in newspapers. Special interest pieces can be had for the cost of a press release or just letting the news department know that you exist, and what makes you unique. 7 BE CONSISTENT. When you find what works, stick with it. Familiarity

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Tuesday 13.3.12

Little Trust help sports pupils

Gold for Laura L

ornshill Academy pupil Laura MacAulay won a gold medal at the recent Scottish Schools Indoor Athletics Championships. Laura took the top spot after throwing 9 metres 58 cms in the over 16s shot put at the event, which was held at Glasgow’s Kelvin Hall. An S6 pupil, Laura is currently studying for her Highers and also works as a lifeguard at Alloa Leisure Bowl. She hopes to go to University later this year to study neonatal nursing. Head teacher Peter Allan said: “We’re all extremely proud of Laura’s sporting achievements.”

porty pupils at Lornshill Academy were able to buy new athletics vests thanks to a donation from the Little Trust. Pupils (L to R) showed off the vests, Eilidh Russell – a medallist at local and regional cross country events

and 17th at Scottish Schools Cross Country, Shannan Sinclair – has won various cross country and swimming medals this year at local and regional level, also fifth in the Scottish Schools Swimming Competition in 24.15 200m freestyle, Laura

McCaulay –Scottish Schools Indoor Athletics over 16 girls champion in Shot Put and Eilidh MacCorquodale – has won medals at local and regional cross country events this year and was fifth in the Scottish Schools Cross Country.

Claremont win Rotary School Quiz

Back Row - President Graham Kerr, Quizmaster Abeer Macintyre, Principal Teacher of Claremont Primary School Gillian Ward Front Row – Thomas Jarvie, Dylan Carnegie, Jacob Gill, Jack Lambert, Connor Terras.

he Rotary Club of Alloa held the Annual Primary School Quiz in Alva Academy organised by Rotarian Rob Lapsley. The quizmaster was Abeer Macintyre. Twelve schools participated in a hard fought and exciting competition. The Winner and the Runners up go to the Area 7 final in May,

which this year will be hosted by Alloa Rotary Club at Alva Academy. The winning school was Claremont Primary School, but the excitement did not end there as St John’s and Sunnyside were equal and had to take part in a Tie-Breaker. St John’s were the winners.

Pupils at Lornshill Academy were all wearing trainers yesterday for national Sport Your Trainers Day. The pupils were wearing trainers to raise awareness of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

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Tuesday 13.3.12

Schools: LORNSHILL ACADEMY MONDAY 12th March 2012

National Entitlement Card Youth Development staff will be in school on Tuesday 13th March to photograph S1 pupils for their National Entitlement Card. All pupils were issued with letters along with a consent form which must be signed by their parents. Pupils should bring their consent forms with them on Tuesday 13th March. No pupil will be photographed without a consent form. Pupils in other year groups who do not have a National Entitlement Card and wish to have one can collect a letter and consent form from the school office. Clackmannanshire Senior Schools Basketball Competition On Wednesday 7th March, Lornshill Academy were represented at the annual Clackmannanshire Senior Schools Basketball Competition at Alva Academy. Despite having only 5 players for the boy’s competition and 4 players for the girls, all the players put a massive amount of effort into each of the games they had. The boy’s team won one game and drew the next, finishing top of the competition and receiving the gold medals. The girls’ team suffered one defeat and managed one win to finish second in their tournament on points difference, finishing with the silver medals. All participants should be recognised for their contribution and thoroughly deserved their success. Well done! Forth Valley Schools Cross Country Championships The Forth Valley Schools Cross Country Championships were held on Thursday 8th March at Queen Victoria High School, Dunblane. Lornshill did very well as you can see from the results posted below. Well done to all who took part! S1 / S2 Girls 2nd Eilidh Russell S3 / S4 Girls 1st Eilidh MacCorquodale 3rd Shannon Sinclair Maths Homework Club A Maths Homework Club takes place every Tuesday lunchtime 1.15- 1.45 for all 1st and 2nd years. The club is held in Mr Hurley’s classroom (1-035) and is run by the following S6 pupils: Kirsty Rough, Ross Hamilton, Steven Wilkie, Lisa McShane. All S1 & S23 welcome. Scottish Schools Cross Country Championships The Scottish Schools Cross Country Championships were held at Irvine Beach on Saturday 10th March. Eilidh Russell (S1) ran in the Under 14 girls race and finished in a very impressive 17th place out of a filed of over 130runners. Eilidh MacCorquodale (S3) participated in the 15-17 girls race and, although being very young in her age group, finished in a magnificent 5th place. Well done to both girls for such great performances.

Alloa Academy 12th March 2012 Inter-House competition Congratulations to pupils in Schaw House who have won last week’s Inter-House competition and gain 15 points for the House. Erskine were in second place gaining 11 points with Bruce in third place gaining 10 House points. As you can see, it really makes a difference gaining weekly co-operations for yourself, your class and your House. 1S1 topped the lists for both weekly and excellent co-operation with 1B2 top of the homework stakes. Prefect Appointments Successful Prefectship applicants have been notified via a list on the Prefect noticeboard and letters of appointment will be sent out by the end of next week. Appointed Prefects will now have the opportunity to submit applications for the post of Head Girl and Head Boy and will be interviewed next week. Successful candidates for the ballot will address assemblies in the week beginning 19th March, with the announcement of the results at the Senior Awards Ceremony on Thursday 19th April. Option Choice Procedure Thank you to all parents who attended the Option choice information evening on Thursday 1st March. The S2 Parents’ Evening will took place on Monday 12th March from 4.00 – 6.00. S5/6 option choice is also well underway. All pupils will be having individual interviews with PTs Pupil Support over the next two weeks. Please note that there is on the school website an electronic version of the course choice information with details about all of the subjects on offer. Our careers Officer is also available for appointments. CHAS charity event Thursday 15th will see Alloa Academy Crazy Hair Event. Pupils and staff can pay £1.00 to have crazy hair for the day, with a prize for the craziest. Full school uniform is expected to be worn with the crazy hair! Funds raised are for the children’s Hospice – an extremely worthwhile cause. There will also be a cake sale at morning break. Senior Inter-school basketball Congratulations to the teams who took part in this competition last week. Our boys team and girls team both won bronze medals. A great deal of fun was had by all.

Cross Country Congratulations to all of our cross country runners who competed in very wet and muddy conditions at QV school in Dunblane last Thursday. Four runners returned to the school with team medals after their results contributed to ‘Team Clackmannanshire’s’ final standing. Jodie Currie S1/2 Girls - Silver Medal Declan McGrath S1/2 Boys – Bronze Medal Josh Brown S3/4 Boys – Bronze Medal Aidan Cameron S3/4 Boys – Bronze Medal and 4th place overall in the race. Fairtrade Fortnight Fairtrade Fortnight was a big success with many pupils buying fairly traded goods and a staff coffee morning on Friday. The total raised has not been confirmed yet, but well done to all involved. Uniform reminder Please note that leggings are not appropriate school uniform wear. School trousers or skirts should be worn and skirts should be of an appropriate length. Large piece of jewellery or hair ornaments should not be worn. The standard of uniform has been good this year so far and we do not wish to see that deteriorate. Uniform can now be ordered online direct from Logoexpress.

WHAT’S ON Alloa Bow Mar user group: Monday 19th March, 7.00pm meeting open to anyone living in the Bow Mar Place, and all groups using the centre. WAGGS: Clackmannanshire Women and Girls Group are always looking for new members with fun ideas, if you are looking for something different to do on a Monday night why not come along to the Bowmar Centre 6.30 till 8.30. You can join our Zumba class, relax and have a cuppa and a chat, learn a new craft, browse the Centre library, swap books, make new friends as well. We are presently working out our monthly activities and we’re interested in learning new skills.. so if you are female, aged 10 to 110, and would like to join us we will be pleased to see you. We have a creche most nights so no worries about the bairn. We are quite a musical lot, so there could be the odd karaoke night, we try to put on a festive show each December, which involves singing, dancing, comedy etc...you could be a budding star, but don’t worry it’s not compulsory. For more information phone Aileen on 07519656215 or Heather on 07709189880. Sunday night dance: Old time, modern and sequence dance will be held in Alloa Town Hall from now until April 15 2012 from 7pm for 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Admission is £5. On April 15, David Vernon will be providing the entertainment. Bring your own refreshments. Alloa Carers Centre: Alloa Carers Centre is working with Community House and has a weekly coffee morning at Community House, 23 Maree Court on Mondays between 10am and noon. All carers welcome. Play Alloa: Easter Playscheme places are now available. Please see your session coordinator for a booking form. The Easter Playscheme will run from 10 -13 April in the Lesser Hall at Sauchie Hall. Pre-booking is required. The Monday Group (for over 16s) has received £4000 funding from Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland. This will help to support the group over the next 6 months. Parents/Carers are advised to check out the group’s website at playalloa.co.uk for news and up to date calendar dates. Play Alloa provides play and social opportunities to children and young adults with additional support needs from Clackmannan District. Please let us know if you would like to carry out any fundraising activities on behalf of Play Alloa or make a donation towards our services. For further information please contact Maria Malcolm, Project Manager, Play Alloa by phoning 07800859161 or emailing playalloa@ aol.com. Clackmannanshire Listeners AGM: Notice is hereby given that Clackmannanshire Listeners will hold their AGM on the 24th of March

weecounty

Tuesday 13.3.12

What’s on in your weecounty 2012 at 10am in the Ludgate Church Community Halls. Any business to be included in the Agenda should be send to the secretary- Mrs J Gillies, 37 Main st., Tullibody, FK10 2PY- no later than the 17th of March 2012. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Alva CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Alva CAP on Thursdays from 10am - 10.30am Alva Baptist Church: Coffee mornings are held in the church each Wednesday from 10am to 11.30am. Go and join them for a friendly chat over a hot drink and home baking. Community Notice Board: The notice board is situated outside the CAP/library. Groups and individuals and ‘not for profit’ organisations can advertise activities and display posters here. See the notice board for further details.

Clackmannan The 36th Stirling (Clackmannan) Company: The Boys’ Brigade meets in Clackmannan Town Hall on Fridays. This week the company hosts a battalion competition and meetings will commence when it is finished. New recruits will be made most welcome and parents should contact the leaders for details of the session’s programme. Contact Kathy for Anchor Boys on 07891389542, Lucy for Junior Section on 07538693554 and Bill for the Company Section on 216763. Clackmannan Parish Church of Scotland: Sunday service is at 11.00 am in the Church and at 7.00 pm in the manse Night Vision welcome Ian Paget the COLT Trust Youth Worker. On Monday at 7.30 pm the Guild hold their Closing Social. On Tuesday the Coffee Morning is open from 10.00 am in the Church Hall. On Wednesday in the Bruce Memorial Hall the Church Choir meets for practice at 6.45 pm when new members will be made most welcome and at 8.00 pm. you can join the Prayer Group for our Lent Studies “Finding a Voice”, a reflection on the film “The King’s Speech”. For more information on these and other activities please visit our web site at www.clackmannankirk.org. Anyone requiring the services of a minister should contact the Revd Scott Raby on 211255. The Thrift Shop: Will be open on March 16th from 1.30 pm — 3.30 pm with a selection of recently acquired, extremely reasonably priced, quality clothes. Tools for Self Reliance: From 18th March Clackmannan World Concern Group starts collecting used hand

tools to send for refurbishment and distribution to African workers. Do you have tools you don’t use any more?they could help an African earn wages. Electric tools don’t work because they don’t have electricity - imperial tools, fixings, garden and medical equipment are not suitable because they are cheap in Africa, out of date or the people are not trained to use them. Any other blacksmith, carpenter or building tools are needed. Contact adminstrator@clackmannankirk.org for more information. Clackmannan Town Hall Trust: The very popular Claxfactor kids talent contest run by the Town Hall Trust returns on Sat 24th March 2012. The contest is open to all P4 - P7 children living within the Clackmannan, Forestmill and Kennet area. Auditions are being held in the Town Hall on Friday 16th March 6pm - 9pm. To register for an audition and for further information please contact Julie on 07944566068.” The Circle of Friends: Meet in Clackmannan Town Hall on Thursday 15 March at 7 p.m. All welcome. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Clackmannan CAP on Wednesdays from 10.30am - 11am Lodge Clackmannan1303: Senior members dinner will be held on Wednesday March 28 in the Masonic Hall, Clackmannan at 7pm. All senior members 65 or over with their wife/partner, also widows of senior members are invited to attend. Names to be given to any member of the lodge by Wednesday March 21 or telephone 214463 or 722770. Zumba: With Ian at Clackmannan Town Hall Monday nights 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Have fun and get fit at the same time.

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

Dollar SWRI: At our monthly meeting on Monday evening we were given an extremely interesting slide show and talk by Mr Ian Whyte about the first third of his walk, visiting all highest points, of the Counties in Britain, from Cornwall to Caithness using the counties of the 19th century. The

variation of country side and urban landscape was huge, Mr Whyte stayed in B&Bs pubs or camped. After 1000 miles he bought new walking boots, we saw the old and new, quite a contrast. Competition results, Scenic Photo Evie Houston 2Sheena Cooke. Three pieces Tiffen 1st Kathleen Morris 2 Patricia Sutherland. Table-Top-Sale: Tables are still available for the table-top-sale in Dollar on Saturday 31 March. You can sell old toys, bric-a-brac, plans, craft work, etc. Tables cost £10. For more information or to book email alloaoffice@centralcarers.co.uk or telephone 01259 226839. Dollar newspaper and magazine collection: Dates for 2012 – 3 April; 1 May; 5 June; 3 July; 7 August; 4 September; 2 October; 6 November; 4 December. Dollar Museum: The Museum is now closed and will re-open on Easter Saturday 7 April, when a new exhibition will be displayed. Thereafter opening times are Saturdays 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4.30pm and Sundays 2pm to 4.30pm. The Museum is at the top of the East Burnside. Entry is free and all are welcome. The next meeting of Dollar History Society will be held on Tuesday, 13th. March, when we shall look forward to hearing about The Enigma of Captain Blighfrom our speaker for the evening, Professor Emeritus Gavin Kennedy of Heriot-Watt University. The meeting will be held as usual in Dollar Academy Dining Hall and will begin at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome and are asked to pay £2. Students and pupils are always welcome free of charge. Bowling Club: A games night will be held in Dollar Bowling Club on February 24. Darts, dominoes and pool or just come for a good blether. All welcome.

Kincardine Kincardine History Group: The last meeting of the session is on Wednesday, 21st March at 7pm, when we have our AGM. There will also be an opportunity for members to show slides from their own collections. Tulliallan Bowling Club: Saturday 17 March cabaret Kool Kats £5.

Menstrie Menstrie Tiny Tots: A club run by mums for mums. This voluntarily organised group meet during term time on Mondays and Thursdays from 10am until 12noon at the Dumyat Centre. All ages from babies to three-years-old are welcome. A healthy snack and drink are provided. A chance for mums and children to interact together through play and planned craft activities. £1.50 per visit – first session free. For more information call in or telephone Sarah on 01259 761098. Cancer Support Group: The group will be in the Dumyat Leisure Centre every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Drop in for a chat and a coffee, everyone welcome.

Muckhart 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.

Fishcross Sauchie Wee County Walkers: Why not join in the free walks led by the 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. Charity Shop: The Cats Protection charity shop in Alloa Road, Fishcross, is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 1pm to 3pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm selling good second hand clothing, bric-a-brac, books and new goods.

Sauchie and Fishcross U F Church: Both services lsat Sunday were based on the need to prepare ourselves to have Communion. In the morning, Maureen Barclay read part of John chapter 12 while, in the evening, Rev Graham Brown read part of Mark chapter 12. Christianity Explored meets on Wednesday March 14 at 7 p.m. The Women’s Association meets on Thursday at 2.15 p.m. when Tom and Sheena Dawson will provide a program. Bible Study and Prayer is at 7 p.m. followed by Choir Practice at 8.10 p.m. The Friday Club for Kids (Leo Club) meets from 6 until 7.30 p.m. Communion Services take place on Sunday at 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Kirk Session meets at 10.50 a.m. The Kites Group and crèche will meet at 11 a.m. Sauchie and Coalsnaughton

Parish Church: The Rev Bill Izett led both services on Sunday 11 March. The Scripture lesson was taken from Philippians Ch2 v12-18 and Ephesians Ch1 v15-23 and was read by Mrs Lily Sewell. In his sermon Rev Izett told the congregation that we can find the letters, CHANGE, in the word CHALLENGE. When God is challenging us, often change is required. Change demands the right perspective. We should want to change ourselves but we can only do that with God’s help. However, God will work in us making His will, our will and will give us the power to change. Anyone wishing to join the Strollers on Wednesday 14 March should catch the 12.50 pm bus for Tillicoultry at the Post Office. The Thursday Circle are having an Open Day on Thursday 15 March at 2.15 pm. Entertainment will be provided by Doreen Arnott and Friends. All Welcome. Vehicular access to the Church will be affected on Sunday 18 March because of the Mini Marathon. Access to the Church Car Park will be via Craigview as Sauchie Main Street will be closed to north bound traffic from 10-12 noon. Traffic will be diverted from Hallpark via Fairfield to Fishcross then south to Sauchie. The Stated Annual Meeting will be held in the Hall on Wednesday 21 March at 7.30 pm. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Sauchie CAP on Tuesdays from 2pm - 2.30pm

Tillicoultry Zumba Class: A Zumba class is held in Tillicoultry Centenary hall on Wednesday’s from 8pm – 9pm. Contact 01259 721886 for information. CAP: Come along and join our free Rhyme, Song and Storytelling sessions for under fives at Tillicoultry Library on Thursdays from 10am - 10.30am Prize Bingo: On the 9th March will be prize Bingo in Aid of parents and friends of Clackmannanshire children. Will be held in the Centenary Hall. 50p entry eyes down 7.30.

Tullibody Tullibody and Cambus Girlguiding: To join the leadership team. Contact Ann-Margaret on 07908 252104 or Girlguiding Clackmannanshire on 01259 211318.

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

weecoun

Tuesday 13.3.12

AGE GROUP 1: 0-1yrs entrants

nt h (5 mo w e r nd

1 s) N o.

-•-•- Competit

Jack (5 months) No.3

Emily (15 weeks) No.5

Rory (9 months) No.2

Michael (7 weeks) No.4

Robbie (4 months) No.6

HOW TO VOTE - cut out and fill in the voting slip

then delivery or post to the Wee County Office (address below)

weecounty news

-•-•- Competition 2012 -•-•I would like to vote for ___________________________ (photo no. _________) , age group: 0-1 years

Post or deliver your entry to: wee county news, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG

s) No.7 Jak e (6 m onth

Tyle

nty news

Tuesday 13.3.12

tion 2012 -•-•Z ac ( 9 m t h s)

N o.1 5

Ellie (9 months) No.11

Ru dy (4 months) No.8 l

Amy (9 months) No.16

Jenna (8 months) No. 12

Chelsey (9 months) No. 9

er James (6mths) No.10

M o nt a n

A lf ie (1 8 w ee k s) N o. 14

Eili dh

Anne ( 1 y r) N o .1 3

a (11 m o n t h s) N o.1 7

Tuesday 13.3.12

Your Horoscope Predictions

Q’s Views!

By Anne Smith RECORD Aries (21 March - 20 April) Your ruler Mars moves signs on the 3rd moving into you domestic zone. As we all know he is a bossy little planet and may stir up some trouble around your family and friends. You may find that you are dragging up the past and raking through people’s skeletons, if you want to keep your friends please close the closet as leaks will definitely be regretted by September. Taurus (21 April - 21 May)

Neptune is a planet that can make your dreams come true, and he is back in your sign on the 5th and he is only here for a few short months so make the most of this time to get what you want from career issues to sorting out your love life, the full moon joins him on the 13th allowing you to say goodbye to who and what is holding you back.

Gemini (22 May - 21 June)

Time to shake up and shape-up as Mars moves into your money zone from the 3rd encouraging you to make plans for new opportunities on how to build your coffers! Work will be foremost on your mind and if you can lift your self-confidence and remember you are a bright star you will rocket into orbit!

Cancer (22 June - 23 July)

Libra (24 Sept - 23 Oct)

A typical month for you , where you want one thing to happen, well others to do it for you and another occurs. This is the nudge you need to realize that you are the only one who can sort out your communications. Your love life is taking a turn for the better as those nearest and dearest around you just seem to get you this month.

Scorpio (24 Oct - 22 Nov)

Try not to get caught up in petty disagreements this month as to who said what as this type of behaviour needs to be nipped in the bud immediately, as Mercury is retrograde and is doing his best to wind you up. At work you may be given a project to handle as a sort of quest and the results will definitely have an input in your future there.

Sagittarius (23 Nov - 21 Dec)

Mercury retrograde in your sign this month gives you an opportunity to talk and look at all communications between you and you other half, look at what was said and about commitments or promises you may have made but have not yet fulfilled! Try to remain optimistic where work is concerned to as things may go a little dull around the middle of the month but by the 23rd through to the 29th things are looking really bright and there could be a promotion for some.

Capricorn

Worrying about money is a waste of time, but doing something to improve your situation is not. Love is not going to be easy for you this month either so hold on tight it will get a little bumpy along the way. With Saturn still in your family zone and mars entering on the 3rd, you will be thinking about moving home or making decisions on how to sort out your child who needs some new rules to keep them in line.

(22 Dec - 20 Jan) Mars is moving into your love zone at the beginning of the month and things are hotting up for the usually well hidden fires of Capricorn, you are on fire this month and you are attracting moths to the flame, remember to put some of that new found passion into your current relationships, and remember all that fire can also cause some heated debates, try to control the heat!

Leo (24 July - 23 Aug) As your solar year begins, Neptune is moving into your love skies, with a little romance in your heart you can make your heart’s desire a reality, if you wish! Jupiter is in your work zone and shine hope and optimism, he is known as the planet of luck and he seems to be drawing the right people at the right time to you like a magnet in the coming months

.Try to live in the moment this month as there is so much going on in your chart that I would need a week to discuss it. Try not to start plans this month or over analyses either as communications are not what they appear to be, Honestly this month you need to go with the flow, don’t commit to anything and do not sign anything until after the full moon on the 13th.

Virgo (24 Aug - 23 Sept)

It is a poor month for romance from the 5th of the month and those you love seem to be testing you in more ways than one. Venus is back on the 21st so make the most of that time where you could rekindle your fire. On a brighter note your career and money are improving this month and it is a good to share your ideas with those who would listen as there is a hidden gem just waiting to get out!

Aquarius (21 Jan - 19 Feb)

BREAKING BAR TAB

A young businessman has set a world record by spending over £200,000 in a Liverpool bar. Even Ozzy Osbourne, at the height of his alcoholism, wouldn’t spend that much in a bar. Apparently he spent £125,000 on one bottle of champagne alone. I’m sorry, but if for that amount of money I’d expect the booze to have gold in it. And I’m amazed that any bar, let alone one in Liverpool, would have a bottle of champagne behind the bar worth double the price of some people’s house (or worth £125,000 more than Rangers). Personally I believe that anybody who has the kind of money whereby they can afford to blow £200,000 in a bar shouldn’t be allowed to have it. I’d also like to see if

entertainment weecounty 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!

they can tell the difference between £125,000 champagne and a bottle I bought out of Tesco.

SUITS

Has anybody seen this new drama on Dave, about the two lawyers, only one have whom has a degree? Is it me, or will the novelty of a lawyer not having a degree wear off very shortly? I wouldn’t have thought it was remotely possible that somebody could get to practice law with no degree, until Craig Whyte apparently bought Rangers with no money (allegedly!)

ZOMBIE SCHOOL

I was surprised when a friend of mine revealed that she’d been accepted into Zombie School. I know the government are under pressure to create new learning and employment opportunities for people, but

that one is just a bit much. Seriously though, I’m told that zombie school is where people are trained to act like zombies so as they can partake in Glasgow’s newest leisure attraction- 2.8 Hours Later. Participants travel through a city ravaged by zombies, looking for small pockets of survivors in all sorts of locations, and of course encounter zombies. Whilst I think it sounds like a great idea, I have 3 questions for the organisers. Firstly, for the zombie ravaged city- do you take the participants to a set, or do you simply take them to Cumbernauld? Secondly, at zombie school do you have an actor who trains the class on how to act like a zombie, or do you just get them to down a bottle of buckfast? And finally- if a zombie chases the participants

WIN A MEAL FOR 2 AT THE

ACROSS 1. Young person (5) 4. Sharp pointed implements (7) 8. Butterfly larva (11) 9. Exhilarated (8) 10. Yield (4) 12. Humble (6) 13. Ineffectual (6) 16. Movable barrier (4) 18. Drover (8)

Pisces (20 Feb - 20 Mar)

You will be in your element this month as there is so many comings and goings of the planets in your sign you will do yourself proud as you twist and turn with the flow. It is a month to sort out the wheat from the chaff, all those niggling issues in love and work so you can have a clear start for September, Friendships will show there true colours around the 16th so be prepared to let go and move forward.

21. Glorious (11) 7. Earnest (7) 22. Scaling devices (7) 11. Sudden 23. Surface unexpected event (8) 12. Sorcerous (7) DOWN 14. Mass of frozen 1. Luxury craft (5) water (7) 2. Articulated (7) 15. Furniture items (6) 3. Innocuous (8) 17. Diffident (5) 4. Disturbances (6) 19. Days of the 5. Snakelike fish (4) month (5) 6. Big (5) 20. Fiend (4)

Recently featured in “Pick Me Up” Magazine Is teaming up with Lauren Eusebi At her Studio,1048 Shettelston Road Every Wednesday and Thursday For more information Visit; www.angelanne.co.uk Telephone 07506723569

Anne’s Spirit Art Cards For Divination

CROSSWORD

Email angelanne@btinternet.com or visit www.angelanne.co.uk

Food for the soul

I had never seen the film Top Gun until this evening (as I type this, the end credits are rolling up). Everyone advised me that it was THE film of the 1980s. Personally I don’t see what all the fuss was about. What I don’t get is this- the film was made at the height of the Cold War, when there were genuine fears that the West could end up in a nuclear war with the Soviet Union. Why is it after the dogfight when they’ve shot down several Soviet MIG aircraft and they’re all giving each other high-5’s, does nobody say “Hang on lads; doesn’t this mean World War 3’s started?”

DODGY PARKING

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.

SUDOKU Answers on page 24

07506723569

ANGEL ANNE Psychic Medium

AND FINALLY

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

Anne is a Spiritualist Medium, Tarot reader and a Reiki Master & available for private consultation, healings and church services

contact, ANNE on

and they flee into certain pubs (which I shan’t name for legal reasons), do you think they might flee from the pub seconds later screaming “Oh God, the pub’s full of them?”

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

weecounty

lifestyle

Tuesday 13.3.12 19

The mysteries of your body explained E

ver wondered why we sneeze? Or how it is that yawning is contagious? We solve just a few of the weirdest most wonderful things about the human. WHY DO WE SNEEZE? Put simply, sneezing is a defence mechanism which removes foreign particles that irritate the lining of our nasal passages. We most often sneeze due to a cold - sneezing eliminates bacteria - but allergies also cause sneezing and even those who do not test positive for allergic rhinitis can react to allergens by sneezing. One in three people inherit ‘photic sneezing’, believed to be a congenital defect, which causes sneezing on exposure to bright light. WHAT’S THE POINT OF GOOSE BUMPS? Goose bumps occur when tiny muscles at the base of the hair

follicles tighten, causing the hair to stand erect when a person is cold, scared or excited. By observing animals, scientists concluded that we get goose bumps when cold because the hair traps air to create insulation and when in a state of high emotion - in animals - to make one appear larger and more intimidating, a leftover from our earlier incarnations. WHY IS YAWNING CONTAGIOUS? Contrary to popular belief yawning is not a sign of tiredness but designed to keep us awake by cooling the brain and helping us to work more efficiently. Therefore some scientists believe that contagious yawning is triggered by empathic mechanisms which maintain vigilance in a group. Only half of human adults are prone to contagious yawning. WHY DO MILK SHAKES GIVE ME

PET of the week

BRAIN FREEZE? Caused by eating or drinking extremely cold substances, brain freeze or an “ice cream headache” occurs when something cold touches the roof of the mouth or is swallowed. The effect is a result of the rapid freezing and then warming of the blood vessels in the palate which nearby pain receptors send to the brain, which then reads the message as referred pain in the forehead. WHY DO OLD PEOPLE GET UP SO EARLY? It’s a common myth that the elderly sleep less than younger adults. In fact it’s a combination of earlier nights, daytime naps and a change in hormones which has pensioners down at the newsagent at the crack of dawn. Melatonin and growth hormone affect the way we sleep and a lack of both make older people tired earlier and awaken earlier. Conversely, it is the amount of melatonin in their bodies which keeps teens in bed until midday. WHAT MAKES ME HICCUP? Excessive eating and drinking, stress or excitement can cause hiccups which scientists suggest may be caused by the fact that our distant ancestors lived in the sea. A similar system has been observed in amphibians who use the action for gill ventilation, but the fact that hiccups still exist points to the reflex’s usefulness in helping

weecounty

mammals learn to suckle. WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT TO CURE THE COMMON COLD? The common cold is a virus and these cannot generally speaking be ‘cured’ (at least so far) - the

only hope against any virus is vaccination. However there are so many strains of cold - around 200 at last count - that it is extremely difficult to find a cure-all without vaccinating a person 200 times.

Shake off those aches & pains

Devil’s Claw JointAid – 60 tablets £13.95 www.healthspan.co.uk FREEPHONE 0800 73 123 77

recipes

Navarin of Lamb T

ry this tender lamb and vegetable dish in a rich wine gravy for a delicious French take on the classic casserole. Ask your butcher for advice on the best cut of lamb for stewing.

Bray

Breed: Westie Age: 8 years Lives: Alva Likes: Best pal Gromit and walking and playing with his toys Dislikes: Water and fireworks 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 knob of butter, for frying 500g stewing lamb, cut into 3cm cubes 1 carrot, chopped 1 onion, chopped 1 stick celery, chopped 1 leek, chopped 25g plain flour 1 tbsp tomato puree 100ml red wine 600ml stock 1 bay leaf sprigs of thyme and rosemary salt and freshly-ground black pepper To garnish: carrots turnips button onions new potatoes peas METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas Mark 4

2. Heat the butter in a flame-proof casserole dish and fry the lamb until golden. Add the chopped carrot, onion, celery and leek. Fry until the vegetables are lightly browned. 3. Remove from heat. Drain off excess fat and mix in the flour. Return to heat and fry, stirring until the flour is lightly browned. 4. Mix in the tomato puree, wine, stock, bayleaf, thyme and rosemary. Season to taste with the salt and pepper. 5. Bring to the boil, cover and bake in the oven for 1.5-2 hours until the lamb is tender. Remove from oven. 6. Transfer the lamb into a

saucepan with a slotted spoon, and pour the gravy over through a strainer. Heat gently while frying the garnish vegetables in a little butter. 7. While the navarin is cooking, boil the garnish vegetables untill barely cooked through, but still tender. Then pan-fry them in a little butter. 8. Transfer the lamb to a serving dish and garnish with the pan-fried vegetables. Serve immediately.

recruitment

Tuesday 13.3.12

GARAGE WORKSHOP CONTROLLER Job No: ALL/23164 SOC Code: 5231 Wage Exceeds Nat Min Wage Hours 46 HOURS PER WEEK, OVER 7 DAYS, DAY Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 27 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must have extensive experience within the motor trade. Immediate start available. Must have good knowledge in the Fast Fit industry, and have a knowledge of the day to day running of a garage. Duties include dealing with telephone calls and members of the public. Tyre experience would be an advantage. 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 FITTER AND TURNER Job No: ALL/23169 SOC Code: 5223 Wage ÂŁ7.72 per hour Hours 39 per week, Monday to Friday, between 7am - 3.30pm Location Tillicoultry, Clackmannanshire FK13 Duration Permanent Date posted 28 February 2012 Pension details Pension available Description An ability to machine is required and all those that apply will be subject to a machine test on a Ward 5

this. This entails mainly weekend work. Previous applicants need not re-apply. The employer has claimed an exception under the Equality Act 2010. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/23199, 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.

or Ward 10 lathe. Parts are transported with the aid of a hoist crane, sack barrows and forklift trucks all of which our internal training will cover. A few particulars are listed as follows, our processes involve machining bar from Ă&#x2DC;10mm to Ă&#x2DC;200+, saw cutting bar to size before inserting into a lathe, drilling goods for bolt hole clearances and sharpening drills with the aid of a pedestal grinder. Responsible to the Turning foreman you will be required to use lathes, drills and saws to machine low tolerance bosses and pins as required. Immediate start. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Mr James Travers at Lemac Engineering, 3 Barnpark Drive, Tillicoultry, Clackmannanshire, FK13 6BZ or to james@lemaconline.com. Employer Lemac Engineering

CAFE SUPERVISOR Job No: ALL/23188 SOC Code: 9223 Wage EXCEEDS NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE Hours 25 HOURS PER WEEK. DAYS AND TIMES TO BE ARRANGED Location ALLOA, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 05 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description Are you motivated, enthusiastic and enjoy working in a fast paced environment? If the answer is yes weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to have you on our team! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be based in one of our most busiest branches to support and help lead the team and bring dynamic new ideas and energy to the company. Driving customer service and exceptional hygiene standards will be vital, in additio

BAR STAFF Job No: ALL/23199 SOC Code: 9225 Wage MEETS NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE Hours WEEKENDS Location TULLIBODY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 07 March 2012 Closing date 05 April 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must be 18 years plus Bar staff required for busy village pub. We are looking for cheery motivated people to join our team. Training advantageous but not essential as we can provide

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Trainee Fitter Job No: ALL/23198 SOC Code: 5412 Wage ÂŁ6.08 per hour Hours 39 per week, Monday - Friday, Between 8am - 4.45pm Location Alva, Clackmannanshire FK12 Duration Permanent Date posted 07 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description The Campbell Group is Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading soft furnishing and upholstery contractor, that provide a complete end to end service to clients from design to manufacture, we are now looking to recruit a trainee fitter to join us. You will be supporting the manufacturing team with the accurate completion of measuring and fitting to a high standard. To be considered for this position, you must have, knowledge of metric sizing, in order to provide accurate measurements for estimating purposes, good communication skills and be of a smart personal appearance. Candidates should have the ability to work on their own initiative, aware of manual handling and be able to work at heights, and should have good time keeping skills and be flexible, occasional overnight work may be required. How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 01259 760572 and asking for Liz McClelland. Employer The Campbell Group ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT Job No: ALL/23193 SOC Code: 4150 Wage ÂŁ14526 TO ÂŁ15240 PER ANNUM PRO RATA Hours 30 PER WEEK, DAYS LocationALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 06 March 2012 Closing date 13 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description You will be required to cover reception as well as a variety of administrative based functions including answering telephone enquiries, maintaining databases, sorting and distribution of mail, diary management, arranging meetings and minute taking when required. Previous experience in a reception or administration based role is essential and it is desirable that candidates have had some experience of working within a school environment or with individuals with autism. IT skills in Microsoft Office

Word, Outlook Excel are essential for this post and ideally you will hold an administrative qualification. Please note the organisation operates a policy where only successful applicants will be contacted. 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/23193, 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. COOK Job No: ALL/23191 Employer Reference: SA/811 SOC Code: 5434 Wage ÂŁ14526 to ÂŁ15240 Per Annum Hours Days Location ALLOA, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 05 March 2012 Closing date 13 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description You will support the Head Cook in providing an effective catering service that complies with hygiene and health and safety requirements. You will be familiar with the governments guidelines for healthy and nutritious school meals while catering for the dietary requirements of pupils with autism. Additional tasks may include ordering of supplies, maintenance, budgetary control, and administrative tasks as required in liaison with the Head Cook. Applicants will hold a qualification in professional cookery, a relevant food hygiene certificate and have a working knowledge of cook safe procedures. Previous experience of working in a catering environment with the ability to prepare and cook food is essential only success will be contacted for interview. How to apply You can apply for this job by visiting www.scottishautism.orgOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following the instructions on the webpage. Employer Scottish Autism FLORIST Job No: ALL/23166 SOC Code: 5496

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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.

Telesales Executive

to pushing every area of the storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delivery. As one of our biggest stores, the pressure is high but incredibly rewarding. Working approximately 25 hours per week and reporting directly to the Store Manager, this is an ideal way to join, at a management team level, a vibrant and dynamic company. How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 0141 6492551 and asking for

Tanya McDonald. Employer Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nisi Coffee

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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.

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

weecounty recruitment Wage Negotiable depending on experience Hours 20 PER WEEK, 6/7 DAYS BETWEEN 9AM-5PM Location ALVA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK12 Duration Permanent Date posted 28 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must have previous experience of working in a florist. Must also have customer service experience and excellent customer service skills as will be customer facing. Main duties will be running the front of the shop, making up arrangements, cash handling, customer service and any other associated tasks as required. Applicants can apply by email to sanwar1@ btconnect.com, or by telephoning 01259 760037. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Mr Saeed Anwar at Flowers By Arrangement, 87-89 Stirling Street, Alva, Clackmannanshire, FK12 5ED or to SANWAR1@BTCONNECT.COM. Employer Flowers By Arrangement HANDYPERSON Job No: ALL/23179 Employer Reference: HCO32749 TheOrchard SOC Code: 9121 Wage Meets Nat Min Wage Hours 35 per week, hours to be arranged Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 29 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description To manage overall cleanliness and hygiene of the Care Centre. To manage, participate in the cleaning rota. 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 HC1, jobs.88139.776@hcone.aplitrak.com. Employer HC-1 STORE MANAGER Job No: ALL/23182 SOC Code: 1163 Wage COMPETITIVE RATES OF PAY APPLY Hours 40 HOURS PER WEEK 5 DAYS FROM 7, BETWEEN 9AM - 7PM Location TILLICOULTRY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK13 Duration Permanent Date posted 01 March 2012 Closing date 15 March 2012 Pension details Pension available Description As the hands-on dual site manager of 2 of our outlet stores, you must have proven Store/Assistant Managers experience within a retail environment, possessing a strong and sustained ability to drive and deliver total customer satisfaction whilst maximising sales and profitability. It is essential that you are an enthusiastic, driven individual with good organisational skills to ensure that your stores are presented in a commercial manner. You must be able to achieve results by effectively leading, coaching and motivating your team to deliver their potential. Key responsibilities include - achievement of store sales and KPIs. Ensure high store operational standards throughout. Visual Merchandising, and all in-store displays. Customer service

delivery (personal and team). Stock Integrity. Managing and motivation of all team members. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Anne Smith at Pagazzi Lighting Ltd, anne.smith@pagazzi.com. Employer Pagazzi Lighting Ltd AREA BUSINESS MANAGER Job No: ALL/23159 Employer Reference: Clacksmax SOC Code: 1132 Wage £18000 TO £21000 PER ANNUM Hours 37.5 HOURS OVER A 5 DAY WEEK Location ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE, STIRL FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 23 February 2012 Closing date 31 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description Area Sales Manager responsible for the promotion and sale of services on the Clacksmax High Speed Rural Broadband Network to both Commercial and Private subscribers markets. Applicants should have a proven track record in sales management preferably in the IT Sector. A company car will be provided upon completion of a successful 3 month probationary period. A mileage allowance will be paid during the probationary period. A full job specification can be provided by applying to job.clacksmax@briskona. com and attach a CV. In addition to a proven sales track record applicants should fully conversant with MS Office applications and capable of creating reports and spreadsheet etc. How to apply You can apply for this job by visiting www.briskona.comOpens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following the instructions on the webpage. Employer Briskona Ltd TRANSCRIPTIONIST/AUDIO TYPIST Job No: ALL/23149 SOC Code: 4217 Wage £6.08 TO £7.00 PER HOUR Hours 15-37.5 PER WEEK MONDAY TO FRIDAY BETWEEN 8AM AND 9PM Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Duration Permanent Date posted 17 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description We have an opportunity to join our established team in the centre of Alloa, which is key to the first class service our clients receive. Primary duties; To produce neat, well presented files and analogue documents on a word processor from digital sound tapes with a typing speed of approximately 60 wpm, to provide a professional service to clients ensuring confidentiality is adhered to at all times, to adhere to strict deadlines for daily workload. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kirsty Lang at Intelligent Office UK, Kilncraigs, Greenside Street, Alloa, Clackmannanshire, FK10 1EB or to kirsty.lang@intelligentofficeuk.com. Employer Intelligent Office UK SALES PERSON/SALES MANAGER Job No: ALL/23153 SOC Code: 1132 Wage MEETS NAT MIN WAGE OTE £50,000 Hours 40 HOURS PER WEEK OVER A 7 DAY ROTA, DAYS AND EVENINGS Location SCOTLAND FK10 Duration Permanent

Tuesday 13.3.12

Date posted 21 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must have strong track record in sales, preferably selling bathrooms and kitchens direct to the public. Will be working in both the showroom and visiting customers at home. This is a unique opportunity for a true sales professional to pick up the reins and with the full backing of the directors, grow the business and sales team throughout Scotland, there will be an excellent package on office for the right person, with the hunger , ambition and ability to help this company to achieve its goals. Benefits include: Company car. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/23153, 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.

combined with the ability to make a difference, you’ll have a kind, supportive and calm approach to Residents in our care. . successful candidates will be required to undergo a CRB, PVG or AccessNI. Apply Online URL: How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Recruitment Hub at HC-1, jobs.48770.776@hcone.aplitrak.com. Employer HC-1 CHEF Job No: ALL/23135 SOC Code: 5434 Wage Negotiable depending on experience Hours 32-40 per week, 5 days out of 7, between 10am - 10pm Location Dollar, Clackmannanshire FK14 Duration Permanent Date posted 14 February 2012 Pension details No details held Description Must be of Commis Chef standard and be willing to learn. Must have an awareness of health and safety issues. Duties include preparing and cooking lunches and evening meals. Will be working as part of a team of Chef’s. Company states good career progression. Hours and days will be discussed at interviews. How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 07976 406517 ext 0 and asking for David Morby. Employer Tourmakin

technician SOC Code: 5241 Wage Exceeds National Minimum Wage Hours 70 hours over 7 days Location alloa FK10 Duration Temporary Date posted 10 January 2012 Closing date 31 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description ensure understanding and compliance with permit to work requirements Attend pre-job briefs given by the Supervisor to ensure tasks are clearly understood Carry out Point of Work Risk assessment prior to commencing tasks Carry out Actuator tasks in full compliance with Weir and customer HSEQ procedures, including compliance with Weir 5 Key Safety Values.Refer problems clarifications whilst carrying out the works to the appropriate Supervisor.Complete necessary documentation accurately and in a timely manner. Served a recognised electrical mechanical engineering apprenticeship or 5 years on the job experience with regular appraisals assessments to demonstrate competence.Client Contractor National Safety Group Safety Passport.Pay is as per the NAECI blue book, this role would be a temporary role and would be paid at Grade 5. 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. Employer Weir Services Limited

NURSE RGN Job No: ALL/23146 Employer Reference: hco032614 orchard SOC Code: 3211 Wage Competitive rates of pay apply Hours Full Time, Part time and Casual hours available Days/nights ACTUATOR TECH Location Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 Job No: ALL/23009 Duration Permanent Employer Reference: actuator Date posted 16 February 2012 Closing date 15 March 2012 Pension details No details held Description RNA or RGN Level 1 required. To register as a nurse or midwife in the Due to expansion and increased workload we require experienced IFAs to UK visit www. join our team. Working with a broad level of clients ranging from corporate nmc-uk.orgOpens new window to HNW individuals, you will provide tailored financial planning to meet those (unless Javascript disabled). HC-One needs of our clients. Advice will be given to clients on the whole spectrum of is a care provider with a clear vision planning requirements. and we are looking for qualified nurses both RGN or RMN Successful candidate will also have experience in managing introducers. with excellent clinical skills to help us become the kindest care home Employed and Self Employed positions available and will see candidates operator in the UK. working to set quarterly targets. Rewards for managing and increasing funds Our colleagues are really important to us and they are under management alongside the generation of new business are given. at the forefront of changing the ways we deliver care Successful advisors will see on target income in excess of £100,000. and would like to invite you to be part of this exciting new development. You’ll need to demonstrate a positive can do will do approach coupled with good Urban Black Associates, Lomond Suite, Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, communication and interpersonal Tannochside Park, Uddingston, G71 5PW. skills to succeed. Flexibility and a Urban Black Associates is a trading style of Urban Black Ltd. passion for caring

FINANCIAL ADVISERS WANTED

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or on 0808 108 1186 for further information.

Tuesday 13w.3.12

Health & Fitness

Have a good night

lifestyle weecounty

Take the plunge with

The Big Splash

quick recap of what we have looked at since the New Year. I have written about diet, and the need to eliminate certain ‘food’ stuffs that will not only hinder your weight loss efforts but will also play havoc with your hormones. The main offenders in the majority of your everyday diets are alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, dairy, sugar in all its forms, wheat, Gluten and not forgetting the microwave oven. If you were to remove everything on that list then you will find yourself more than half way to losing body fat. Your liver will love you for it and as a thank you it will then start to metabolise fat an awful lot easier because it won’t have to deal with all the toxins you dump into your body on a daily basis. I have also written about what type of exercise makes the biggest impact on fat loss. Really intense and reasonably short duration is where it’s at. Metabolic conditioning will really get to work on burning off the excess fat. So you can forget plodding away on the treadmill for ages or dilly-dallying on the bike. If you want results then put in some effort and really get yourself moving. Go and lift some heavy weights and as my last article stressed, that applies to woman also, as you will not bulk up! Another factor to consider is sleep. This is a huge part of winning the fat loss battle. Ideally you want to be in bed by 10-1030pm. ‘But that is far too early’ I hear you cry. Well I really have to disagree. Not only is it part of the price you have to pay if you want the body of your dreams, but going to bed at this time works with the body’s circadian rhythms. Simply put, cortisol levels in the body start to fall as the day wears on and reach their lowest point in the evening allowing us to relax and sleep. The problems arise when you sit in front of the TV or the computer, you are actually causing cortisol levels to rise again and you end up being ‘wired but tired’. Turn off about 60-90mins before going to bed and you will sleep much better. Go to bed between 10 and 1030 and you will reach the deeper stages of sleep that your body needs to repair bones muscle and tissue and also appears to strengthen the immune system. Here’s the good bit, your body will have to burn calories to maintain and repair the afore mentioned tissue muscle and bone while you are sleeping. It is during sleep that the body grows new cells and that all takes energy. A good sound sleep will help lower stress levels as well as aid your concentration. Naturally, we should start to wake up when it starts to get light outside. Our body’s sense this and start to produce cortisol, which will give us a powerful jolt to get us up, and moving.

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housands of people are taking the plunge and getting involved in the Big Splash, a campaign spearheaded by British Swimming and the BBC which aims to encourage the nation’s existing swimmers and inspire new people into the pool. Around 13 million people in Britain swim regularly, already making it the biggest participation sport in the country. But despite this, there are 400 drownings a year, one in five adults cannot swim and one in five children leave primary school without this essential life-saving skill. The BBC will support the campaign by running on-air initiatives across key programmes with the help of some of its biggest stars, including Gary Lineker, Graham Norton, Matt Baker

and Gabby Logan. Big Splash Ambassador and five-time Olympic gold medallist Ian Thorpe said: “Swimming is a skill for life. It is especially important for young people to enjoy the water safely, whether itís at the beach or the local pool.”British Swimming chief executive David Sparkes added: “The Big Splash is part of our ongoing drive to increase participation in swimming. Working with the pools and the BBC, we expect to see many more people getting active as we move towards the greatest sporting event in the world, the Olympic Games.”Swimming is one of the most accessible forms of exercise and can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of age, weight, background or ability, alone or with their family and friends. It has

huge health and well-being benefits and is a skill which is transferable to a multitude of other sports and hobbies and can be great fun. Hundreds of pools have already signed up to the campaign and, together with British Swimming, are offering a wide range of exciting Big Splash activities and resources, including:a one stop shop website www. bigsplash.co.uk, which includes a pool finder improver lesson sessions at your local pool games for all the family plenty of “Feel the burn” fitness tips a Big Splash online community for more hints, tips and support. And if you fancy becoming a BBC star, Radio 5 Live presenter Shelagh Fogarty is looking for a family who want to go off the deep end this summer. Whether your family can’t

swim, can’t swim well or simply want to reboot their swimming habits, Shelagh wants you to get in touch to share your story. She said: “It must be awful not to be able to swim. I remember learning as a little girl and how hard it was to learn. But it can be loads of fun as well so if you’re a family that can’t swim or can’t swim well then contact us.”Get in touch with Shelagh by texting 85058, emailing Shelagh@bbc.co.uk or by messaging on Twitter using @shelaghfogarty. So whether it’s more the chance to spend more quality time with the kids, training to be the best or just splashing about for a laugh, what are you waiting for? Find out more at the campaign’s website, http:// www.bbc.co.uk/sportrelief/ bigsplash/

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weecounty property

Tuesday 13.3.12

Kitchens: The heart of the home, once again L

ook back to the cookery shows of the late 1990s and early 2000s and you can see exactly where our kitchen inspiration came from - the anodyne, sleek, chrome-clad kitchens of professional chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver and Heston Blumenthal. All of a sudden the warm, cosy kitchens of our parents, the kind of kitchen which Grand Dame of home cookery Delia Smith would have prepared a roast chicken dinner in - wooden cabinets, tiled floors and floral curtains - were out. Instead, we were pouring concrete, installing stainless steel ranges and finding new and ingenious ways to open cupboards without using anything as unsightly as handles. The home kitchen became as close to the galley of a top London restaurant’s backroom as it was possible to get: a functional space in which to create cordenbleu spagbol and show off our collection of vintage Burgandies in the sleek builtin wine rack. But unless you’ve been

hiding under a rock for the past few years you can’t have failed to notice a change. Yes, many of us are still looking to Poggenpohl and Tecnocucina for sleek lines and white, white, white, but even more are putting the heart back in to the kitchen.

It’s been happening for a while. Cath Kidston and Emma Bridgewater have been tempting us with spotty egg cups and cutesy 1950s inspired cutlery, Nigella Lawson has been extolling the virtues of her Kitchen Aid mixer as she licks yet

another mixing bowl clean and Nigel Slater has made the move from print to television, picking ingredients from his allotment garden to make cosy suppers in his homely TV kitchen which might have the limited colour palette of the 1990s cookery show

kitchen but which exudes welcoming warmth with bare wood and earth tones. It’s a fair bet to make that even Heston Blumenthal might have been swayed to adding a little splash of colour back at his home where nobody can see it.

Once again an Aga is the top of the kitchen wishlist. In every colour going it’s almost a shame not to buy one in bright red or retro yellow - even Ms Bridgewater has designed one in her trademark country kitchen-esque primary colour spot. A cast iron range is undoubtedly the central feature in any family kitchen worth its salt, but if you can’t afford one (and they are ludicrously expensive) adding heartfelt character to your kitchen is simple. Patterns such as spots, stripes, hearts and stars are cute and colourful whether on crockery, cutlery or just your tea towels. Attaching a devil-may-care attitude to tidiness is a must too, within reason: open shelving filled with colourful bits and bobs, pretty bottles, cookbooks and retro finds look great while hanging your utensils above the stove or even pans from a ceiling rack has an olde worlde vibe and makes everything easy to find. There are endless ways to bring your kitchen in to the 2010s but the most important thing is to make it a living space once again.

motors

Tuesday 13.3.12

Motoring

weecounty

Dealing with road rage

oad rage is on the increase. When there were fewer cars on the roads, it was unheard of. A journey could be enjoyed the without fear of angry motorists spoiling it with their uncontrollable tempers. In recent years, outbursts of conflict between drivers have been widely publicised. It is natural to feel concerned about encountering aggression when driving. But we must all keep the risk in perspective, says Green Flag, the motoring assistance organisation. Incidents of unprovoked rage on the road are still quite rare. The chances are that you will never experience anything really traumatic.

TIPS ON STEERING CLEAR OF ROAD RAGE • Keep your own stress level low by allowing plenty of time and ensuring you know where you are going. • Always try to look confident and in control, not nervous and vulnerable, even if that’s how you feel. • Be polite and courteous, even when other drivers behave unreasonably. • Stay calm. Don’t allow yourself to be provoked or answer back. Avoid confrontation. • If you make an error of judgement, wave an apology to placate the other driver. • Drive with your doors locked at night in busy urban areas and keep them locked when stationary. • Keep the sunroof and

• • • •

windows closed if you’re forced to move slowly in areas where you feel uncomfortable. Never give lifts to strangers. Dealing with road rage Be ready for rudeness or aggression from other drivers. If you feel threatened, remember that your

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primary aim is to defuse the situation and get away. • If another car pulls up alongside or someone harasses you, avoid eye contact. • If you have to stop, stay in the car with the doors locked and engine running, ready to drive off or reverse away. • If you are followed, drive to the nearest police station or a busy place such as a garage Tesco forecourt. PUZZLE ANSWERS from page 18

SUDOKU ANSWERS

CROSSWORD ANSWERS for last weeks Crossword competition answers see page 7

• Use the horn and hazard warning lights to attract attention. • If you have a mobile phone, call the police for help. • If you don’t have a mobile, keep a plastic toy phone handy. It could be enough to deter an aggressor. • Memorise the registration number of the other car, its make and colour and anything you can about the driver’s description. • Helping others • If you see someone else being harassed, don’t be tempted to assist on your own. • Call the police, either on your mobile or from a public phone when it is safe to stop. • Music can help cool the situation • Music can calm the mind. Create a soothing atmosphere in the car with a non-aggressive choice of music. • Doctors recommend listening to something with a slower rhythmic rate than your heart beat,

such as classical music. • Ideally, avoid dance music or anything with a really heavy bass beat. It could hype you up.

• Keep the volume at a reasonable level. Booming noise can distract you and may annoy other drivers.

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weecounty

sport

Tuesday 13.3.12

RUNNING

Central runners in Birmingham cross country action

he climax of the UK Cross Country Challenge Series took place at Birmingham on Saturday 10th March, over a testing course, the races also doubling as the Inter-Counties Championships, arguably the highest quality cross country races in the UK this year. The Central athletes were all competing for the East of Scotland swapping their normal yellow and blue vests for the black of the East. The Women’s Race was a stern test of some 8,000 metres with Central’s Kerry McPhee competing in a field of 250 runners, finishing in an excellent 34th place (29.53) and fourth East of Scotland finisher as the East Girls lifted the Silver Team medals. The 12,000metre Senior Mens race was, as always, a tough contest throughout with another top field of some 300 runners. Here it was

Alex Hendry who improved by some 2 minutes and some 70 places on last year’s performance as he sped round in 37min 41secs finishing as second East of Scotland counter. Lewis Millar and Michael Wright also stuck well to their task finishing close together in 106th (38.49) and 107th (38.50) respectively. This was

Scott Green’s first Senior run at this level so he should be pleased with his 143rd placing (39min 49secs) with the East of Scotland Team scoring in sixth place overall. In a busy weekend John Newsom ran a new personal best of 67min 50secs to finish fifth in the Inverness Half Marathon with

Robert Russell coming through in ninth (70.42). Jennifer Emsley continued her recent high quality form as she won the Jack Crawford 10K Road Race in Bishopbriggs in a new personal best of 36min 36sec and with Lyndsay Morrison (37.08) in second and Shona Aiken (43.44) finishing ninth it was Central who

GOLF

Roy Milne Csc Bus for Sunday’s LEAGUE CUP FINAL GAME v Kilmarnock at Hampden park ko 3pm departs:

CLACKMANNAN GOLF: DOLLAR GOLF: TOP TWENTY FINISH FOR Kenneth hits 50 but Sandy wins the CALLUM Polish Cup ulliallan’s Callum Macaulay made a good showing

in the Pacific Rubiales Colombia Golf Classic last week with a level par score of 288 (75,70,69,74) giving him a share of 14th place and leaving him 8 shots behind the winner. Examining his scores shows that the good work in the 2nd and 3rd round was neutralised by over par scores in the first and last rounds. Once again it shows that Callum has the golf game to compete at the highest levels in golf, but at the same time, any over par scores in individual rounds greatly diminish the chances of taking a top spot---- and that’s where the big rewards lie. Although dropping to 6th in the Challenge Tour rankings after two events, Callum must be confident for the upcoming Challenge Tour events. The next event is at the end of March in Kenya, and it’s not until May that the Challenge Tour events in Europe come on stream.

DECISION TIME FOR DOLLAR

ounty golfers and officials will be wishing Dollar Golf Club every success at the Scottish Golf Dinner next week in their quest to take the top Junior Club Award. County President George Kay is hopeful “Being one of four Golf clubs nominated for the award gives them a good chance of being recognised as the top Scottish Golf Club for Junior Development, and it would be a great boost for Dollar and Clackmannan County if they were successful” Best of luck guys!!

12.30pm - Menstrie-Holytree 12.35 - Alva -Cairn 12.45 - Tillicoultry = Volunteer 1 pm - Alloa - Peppes 1.10 - Tullibody = Inn 1.25pm - Stirling - Marches roundabout seat’s available. for more info contact website www.roymilnecsc.net

he final round of the popular Jan Szpula Polish Cup was played in good conditions on Saturday 10th March. It was notable, in particular, for the 50 Stableford points amassed by seven handicapper Kenneth Christie whose round included ten birdies. However, with the six best scores to count from a possible eleven rounds played, it was not enough to claim overall victory. This went to Sandy Bonnar whose six best scores averaged over 40 points per round giving him a total of 252 Stableford points and the 2012 Polish Cup trophy. Full results are as under.

Kenneth Christie

Polish Cup - Overall Results

(best 6 Stableford scores from a possible 11 rounds)

BOWLING

Sandy Bonnar

CLACKMANNAN BOWLING CLUB

Saturday 10th March 2012 Polish Cup (Round 12) Div 1: 1st Kenneth Christie (7) 50 pts; 2nd Jim McEwan (6) 42 pts; 3rd Stephen Leitch (12) 39 pts. Div 2: 1st Scott Maxwell (21) 44 pts; 2nd Stuart Morrison (13) 39 pts; 3rd Dugdale Bradley (18) 38 pts.

lifted the Ladies Team prize. The Gartmorn 6 Trail Race in Sauchie saw Claire Couper win the Ladies Race (37.10) with Claire Brisbane (46.44) taking the prize for first local lady. Barry Sturrock (35.19) finished fifth in the Mens Race with Will Hensman (35.35) in seventh and first local man.

Div 1: 1st Sandy Bonnar (10) 252 pts; Joint 2nd Kenneth Christie (7) & Alex Clouston (10) 237 pts. Div 2: 1st Davie Cowie (15) 238 pts; 2nd Robert Stewart (13) 235 pts; 3rd Charles Norman (16) 231 pts.

here will be poker this Friday, Thanks to the members who have painted and mono blocked and name tagged and weeded and done sign writing and painted markers, fixed fencing and done all those jobs in preperation for the new season which starts on opening day Saturday the 7th of April when we will have a bounce game and a meal and a great nights live entertainment.Please support your club.The club is on facebook and we have our own website so if you want to join the best wee club in the wee county contact us now.

sport

Tuesday 13.3.12

RUGBY

POOL Week 23 Results A League:- Crown B v Allanbridge(Postponed) Oakwood A 4 Crown A 5 Inn 6 Peppes 3 Alva GC 1 Locker Room A 8 Locker Room B 5 Oakwood C 4 B League:- County 5 Upstairs 4 Oakwood B 4 Crosskeys 5 Weirs 5 Oakwood D 4 County Singles Results:- S.Martin 0 M.Boyd 3 S.Anderson 3 B.Wraith 2 K.Glass 3 G.Taylor 2 M.Flemming 2 G.Polley 3 D.Ross 3 S.McKendrick 2 M.Watson 3 M.Empson 0 C.Inkster 3 S.McAllister 0 P.Smith 3 A.Banks 0 Scottish Super 11’s Team Championships:Clackmannanshire had two teams travelling down to Craigtara Holiday Park in Ayr at the weekend with mixed fortunes for both teams. The B1 team got off to a great start with a 6-5 victory over Motherwell A but unfortunately this turned out to be their only victory with the next match versus Ayr & District A being a topsy-turvy game with the Shire lads finding themselves 4-1 behind only to fight back to lead 5-4 but agonizingly only to lose the last two frames.Another 6-5 defeat followed v Levenmouth with the last two matches ending in defeats to Whitburn and Uddingston leaving the lads in 5th place and just missing out on a last 32 place.Thanks to Graeme Taylor and Brian Allan for running the team and to all players for their continued effort. The A team also got off to a great start with a 10-1 victory over Livingston B and followed that up with a 6-5 victory over Arbroath A on Sat morning to book their passage early into the last 32 with only their finishing position in the group to be decided.Unfortunately two agonizing defeats followed to both Paisley A and Kilsyth 6-5.However the A team lads still managed to qualify in 2nd place and lined up on Sun morning in a last 32 match v Glasgow B1 and played very well to secure a 6-1 win and book their passage through to a last 16 match v Doon Valley from Ayrshire.This however is where their run came to an end with a 6-3 defeat with missed chances and some very good potting from the Valley boys ending the Shires hopes.Again many thanks to Michael Polley and Billy Snaddon for running the team and to all the players for their efforts.Both teams would like to wholeheartedly thank all the supporters who travelled down over the weekend to give their support it was very much appreciated. Scottish Super 11’s B Team Championship:- This weekend see’s the Shires B2 team take their place at Pettycur Bay Holiday Park in Fife looking to make their mark on the national scene.With a team of both youth and experience the boys are very confident of doing well and again i’m sure many supporters will be travelling up to give their support.Report on the lads weekend will appear next week. B League Cup(Jelly Memorial)-Sponsored by Cairn Alva:Both semi finals are due to take place this week with the Cairn A taking on Weirs and the Oakwood D up against Crosskeys. The final will take place in the Cairn on Fri 23rd March and many thanks to Stevie at the Cairn for his continued sponsorship.

weecounty

Hillfoots 22 Aberdeenshire 20

he big day was here and Hillfoots welcomed Aberdeenshire for the clash of the season, first versus second with everything to play for, and was sponsored by Tillicoultry Quarries and our very own 2nd XV. Spirits were high and there had been a buzz about the game all week. The support on the sidelines was amazing, and everyone was getting into the atmosphere of the game. Both teams flew out the blocks and you could tell everyone was up for it. The visitors got to grips with the game early on and broke down the ‘Foots defence to run in two tries, the only two that Hillfoots had let through in the last three games. But as shown in weeks before, this did not deter the ‘Foots mindset and they came back immediately. Out of the blue Andrew Hamilton slotted a 50+ yard drop goal to get the locals scoreboard ticking, it was just the catalyst ‘Foots needed. A few passages of play later saw a brilliant wide pass from Calum McGee put Iain Nicolson out in the clear. With just the full back to beat, Nicolson popped to a motoring Robbie Hogg, who ran in Hillfoots opening try. Hamilton put his boot to it again and claimed the extras for the home-side. Almost immediately after the try Hogg broke through again, down the opposite wing this time, and popping off to Kevin Aitken who ran it in just outside of the posts. Hamilton converted the kick.

The game was on and now heating up as both teams were battling hard. Unfortunately a slip in defence allowed the visitors to score just before the half and with the conversion along with a kicked penalty; Aberdeenshire went in at half-time 20-17 up. Half-Time. Hillfoots 17 – 20 Aberdeenshire Stiff words from the coaches got the late try out the minds and got the players focused and ready for the most important 40 minutes of the season. It was clear to see that the best teams in the league were playing at Tillicoultry on Saturday and it was difficult to call the outcome. Aberdeenshire’s power came from their forwards and they showed in the second half with dominant scrums and driving mauls, but Hillfoots had their own abilities to offer and often pushed them off the ball and on occasion won the scrum against the head. Ultimately it was a day for the home-sides back division, using the ball at speed and stretching the visiting defence was going to win the game for ‘Foots. Hamilton gathered up the ball again, this time charging down the field. After beating a couple of defenders he skilfully chipped over the defence from 15 yards out, managing to dive on the ball before it went dead. Hillfoots were leading and playing well enough to see this one out and hopefully get the vital bonus point needed to

FANZONE keep the league going. Attack after attack hit the visitor’s defensive line, but to no avail. ‘Foots just couldn’t break through, and unfortunately lost the ball with seconds to go, Aberdeenshire cleared the ball to touch and brought the game to a close. At the same time, crowning themselves League Champions. Hillfoots had won the battle but not the war. A valiant effort was given by every player on the pitch that day and to win at the same time as losing was hard to swallow. The boys need to

go into the last game of the season on 31st March with the view of keeping their undefeated home record intact. With such a brilliant performance 3 or 4 players were all up for Man of the Match, but with his pace and eye for a gap, the award went to outside centre Robbie Hogg. Hillfoots would like to thank match day sponsors, Tillicoultry Quarries and give out their congratulations to Mike Kilbank on winning 2nd XV Player of the Year at the pre-match dinner.

weecounty sport

Tuesday 13.3.12

DIV 1 - RESULTS Sat 10th March 2012

DIV 1 - FIXTURES Saturday, 17 March 2012

Orkney 24 : 3 Highland Aberdeen Uni 37 : 20 Glenrothes Mackie Acad FP 14 : 3 Caithness Strathmore 6 : 29 Aberdeenshire Hillfoots 31 : 3 Gordonians

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 Team ABERDEENSHIRE HILLFOOTS RFC ORKNEY MACKIE ACADEMY FP HIGHLAND RFC STRATHMORE RFC CAITHNESS RFC GORDONIANS RFC GLENROTHES ABERDEEN UNIVERSITY RFC

P 17 17 15 17 17 16 17 16 16 16

W D L

14 13 9 9 9 6 7 4 3 3

0 1 0 0 0 3 2 1 2 1

3 3 6 8 8 7 8 11 11 12

F:A 436:189 381:231 332:315 337:359 301:308 239:268 273:288 305:386 238:414 321:405

Diff.

Strathmore : Aberdeen Uni

DIV 2 - FIXTURES Saturday, 17 March 2012

DIV 2 - RESULTS Sat 10th March 2012 Blairgowrie RFC 6 : 31 Grangemouth Harris Acad FP 7 : 42 St. Andrews Uni

ALLOA : BLAIRGOWRIE RFC St. Andrews Uni : Grangemouth Harris Acad FP : Madras

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 MIDLANDS P

247 12 68 150 7 61 17 8 44 -22 7 43 -7 5 37 -29 4 34 -15 3 31 -81 9 23 -176 6 22 -84 8 17

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

P 16 16 17 17 17 16 16 17 16 16

W D L

16 15 12 11 7 5 4 4 4 3

0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0

0 1 5 5 10 10 12 13 12 13

F:A

Diff.

599:94 505 11 75 614:184 430 13 73 441:358 83 11 55 364:333 31 8 54 342:382 -40 8 36 196:265 -69 4 26 188:453 -265 5 21 146:384 -238 4 20 178:356 -178 3 19 173:432 -259 4 16

sport

Tuesday 13.3.12

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Oakley United Sauchie Juniors

weecounty

1 2

By Mark Wallace

auchie Juniors returned to the top of the ACA Sports Premier League after a convincing performance against rivals, Oakley United. Sauchie made the short trip to Blairwood Park to play against the team that for most of the season have been the pace setters until recently. Oakley have been struggling with injuries and suspensions due to a poor disciplinary record. Sauchie made only one change from the team that won at Armadale last Saturday with Adam Bonnar replacing Ally Burns. The match was set up as a six pointer for both teams and it was obvious from the start that neither team were going to give an inch. The pitch looked lush with grass, although uneven in parts, not allowing the ball to move smoothly, which would be a test for the players. After six minutes of the match, there was a controversial moment after Chris Purdie made a mistimed tackle on Oakley’s Gary Kelly. The Oakley management team were vocal in demonstrating, resulting in Manager, Stevie Kay, being sent off and out of the technical area. Sauchie took an early lead after thirteen minutes when Darren Cummings made a long pass which Gary Carroll met, beating the off side trap being played by Oakley, which would be a feature of the match. Carroll collected the ball and went passed the advancing Sandison, in the Oakley goals and placed the ball into the net. Sauchie followed this up with a header over the bar two minutes later from Hutchison. Oakley continued their physical and direct style of football, playing a lot of high balls into the

Sauchie box. On twenty minutes, Ryan Blackadder hit a poor free kick from twenty yards out and then followed this up with another shot three minutes later which didn’t trouble Bryn Halliwell, in the Sauchie goals. The game went from end to end with Sauchie’s Steven Bell getting in a header after a cross from Captain Jon Tully. Adam Bonnar went on one of his trademark runs, collecting the ball from his half and racing into the Oakley box before his shot appeared to bounce off the body of Sandison in the Oakley goals. Bonnar was replaced by Brian Morgan, shortly after this due to an earlier injury. The first half ended without any real chances, with Hailliwell in the Sauchie goals catching and holding every cross thrown into his box. The second half started with Oakley enjoying the bulk of the early pressure, although their attacks were mopped up by the steady and reliable defence of Tully, King and Feaks. After fifteen minutes, Oakley made a tactical switch with their number five, Jonny Sinclair moving from centre half to centre forward. His physical presence was to cause the Sauchie defence some difficulties as he put himself about trying to lay off balls for his fellow strikers and midfield players. One of these chances fell to Davy Ross who squandered his shot by hitting wide. The Sauchie defence stood resistant and met every high ball as Oakley’s style changed to route one, with numerous high balls pumped into the Sauchie box. Goalkeeper, Halliwell’s handling was first class, much to the frustration of the Oakley defence and the Oakley supporters

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that had congregated behind his goals. As the game progressed, Sauchie continued to show the better composure with Comrie and Purdie aided by the hard working Hutchison in the midfield tried to play football on the uneven surface. Frustration started to show on the faces of the Oakley players with their collection of yellow cards ever increasing during the match. After soaking up a lot of pressure and defending numerous corners, Sauchie were able to break and increase their lead. Ally Burns, who had previously replaced the hard working Bell, picked up the ball and made a strong run down the left wing and when he got to the bye line, he put a low cross along the goal area. Alan Comrie read the pass and ran into the area to blast the ball into the empty net. The goal was at the end of the second half and left Oakley with little chance of pulling it back. Three minutes into stoppage time, Oakley were rewarded with a consolation goal. Oakley won a free kick on the edge of the Sauchie box and Blackadder placed the ball into the left side of the net, with Halliwell having misread

the shot. After scoring Blackadder appeared to gesture at Haillwell, which the referee saw. Blackadder was given his second yellow card and sent off. The match barely had time to restart. Overall it was a great team performance, with ball players, Carroll and Cummings contributing to create chances. After the match, Sauchie received further good news with results from their rivals. Penicuik were beaten in shock result 2-0 to Downfield and Tayport and Glenrothes played out a goalless draw. The win now leaves Sauchie Juniors two points clear at the top of their league with four games in hand over their closest opponents, Tayport. This Saturday sees Sauchie again on their travels as they head to meet Penicuik Athletic. After their disappointment of last week, the management team of Craig Meikle and Brain Ryle will be looking for their players to bounce back. At this level there are no easy matches and if Sauchie Juniors continue to show the same level of commitment and ability, then Saturday’s fixture promises to be another cracking match, in their pursuit of promotion.

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Tuesday 13.3.12 29

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Managers Comments

aturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game was a real test for us and it proved to be a cracker and from my point of view, a game which our players controlled for long periods of time, with Oakley causing a few problems as we expected from a strong side and our local rivals. Sauchie started the game well and we found ourselves pushing Oakley back into their own half early doors with Darren Cummings, Gary Carroll and Steven Bell doing really well upfront. Great wide play from Darren created a gap and he sent through a delightful ball that Gary Carroll calmly latched onto, kept his cool and slotted high into the Oakley net after rounding the keeper. One nil up away from home to your local rivals and competitors for the league and we knew there was going to be a backlash early on with it being so early in the game. Oakley came at us and we defended well with our back three defending very well and with good force and presence as we have asked them to do in the last few weeks. We had to make a change on the 40 minute mark with Adam Bonar struggling with a knock on came Brian Morgan to replace him. The rest of the first half was played at a high tempo with both sides looking for a way to goal, I felt we edged the play in the first half and thoroughly deserved our lead at the interval. During half time we stressed how important it was to approach the second half with the same desire and discipline as we did in the first. The second half could of went either way to be honest with both teams defending well and trying to push to create chances. We found ourselves on the back foot for a few minutes and defended the danger from Oakley. We then broke

away up the park and great control from Gary Carroll allowed Ally Burns, who tore up the left wing to pick out Alan Comrie in the middle who made a great run and he slammed the ball home to give us our deserved two goal cushion - much to the delight of our keeper Bryn Halliwell, for some reason you will need to ask him!!!! Steven Hutchison and Chris Purdie were playing well and breaking up a lot of the Oakley possession in midfield. Oakley got a consolation goal in the 92 minute through a well taken free kick only for the taker to be sent off for something off the ball. Overall, a great result for the team and we now look forward to next week where we take on Penicuik in another top of the table clash. A big thank you to the travelling support on Saturday it was good to see a good turn out of supporters and your all welcome again next week. The club has booked a players and supporters golf day which will be held at Schawpark Golf Club on the 22nd of June. The day is open to anyone who wishes to take part and get involved in the funny but competitive side of golf I would imagine. Anyone interested please contact the club or George Goodwillie. Fraser Duncan

Junior Football League Home Away TEAM Sauchie Juniors Tayport Penicuik Athletic Glenrothes Oakley United Broxburn Athletic Newtongrange Star Ballingry Rovers Downfield Broughty Athletic Armadale Thistle Arniston Rangers

P W D L F A 11 5 0 0 11 4 15 2 4 2 7 5 14 5 0 2 17 8 15 3 3 1 14 11 13 3 2 2 18 11 15 3 2 2 15 9 1 6 3 2 3 14 8 15 3 3 2 17 14 16 3 1 4 13 20 16 0 3 5 8 20 15 2 4 2 11 9 13 1 1 4 4 12

W D L F A 3 2 1 12 8 4 2 1 9 3 2 2 3 9 10 3 2 3 15 17 3 2 1 14 9 3 2 3 9 13 2 3 3 19 16 2 2 3 7 14 2 2 4 13 14 4 1 3 9 15 0 3 4 7 13 1 2 4 8 17

GD Pts 11 26 8 24 8 23 1 23 12 22 2 22 9 20 -4 20 -8 18 -18 16 -4 13 -17 9

sport

Tuesday 13.3.12

FOOTBALL

Five star Wasps By Sports Reporter

t was top versus bottom at Recreation Park at the weekend as the Wasps hosted visiting East Stirling. The Shire were looking to build on their win last week over Peterhead but the league leaders were hoping to take all three points in the quest for the title. The Wasps got off to the worst possible start as the visitors got off to a flyer when just in the 1st min, Alex Lurinsky slotted the ball passed the stranded Bain in the Alloa goal from 8 yards after Ryan Harding’s poor header landed at his feet. With many of the Wasps’ fans still making their way to their favored spot in the stadium, them and the home side were stunned to go behind so early in the game. The Wasps thought they had leveled on the 22nd min when Ryan McCord fired home from 10 yards but was ruled offside by the assistant referee. Alloa were now seeing a lot off the ball and were rewarded in the 26th minute when Robbie Winters’ run took him beyond the Shire defence, and from 15 yards shot high into the net for his first for the Wasps. The home side could have gone in front if it had not been for on-loan

Hibs keeper Antell, who managed to keep the scores level with a great double save, first from Steve May then from Steve Masterton. The on-loan Hitman May wasn’t to be denied in the 43rd minute when he raced clear to fire the ball past the stranded Antell, sending his team into a halftime lead. Manager Hartley must have given his take a good talking to at the interval as they came out fighting in the second half, and it was literally all one way from there. Ryan Harding notched his first goal for the Wasps and made up for his first minute error when he out jumped everyone to head home a Steve Masterton freekick. Substitute Ross McCord then got in on the act when a lose ball in the area fell to him 10 yards out and he stabbed home at a narrow angle. His fellow sub Craig Campbell then scored the goal of the game 11 minutes from time. From 18 yards out, his volley from a Doyle cross flew high into the net through a sea of Shire red shirts. After the first minute scare the Wasps must have been happy with the outcome that now sees them go 11 points clear at the top of the Irn Bru Third Division. ATT 579

Managers Comments ... JOHN COUGHLIN – East Stirling; “It’s very difficult to stop Alloa playing over a 90 minute period, it was maybe a bit to much to ask from my young side. “Alloa are a good passing side if you give them room they will take advantage of that, just like they did today.”

Alloa Manager: Paul Hartley “We didn’t start today’s game particularly well, but their goal certainly woke us up, it wasn’t until the final 20 minutes of the first half and certainly in the second half every time we attacked we looked capable of scoring today. “We scored some really good goals and of course I am delighted we are at the top of the league but we will not get carried away – we must keep it going and roll on to next week, today’s game is finished and we will look forward to our next game. “I was delighted that Robbie Winters got on the score sheet today, he had not scored since he came to the club – his work rate and linkup play was really good today and he started the game, after Kevin Cawley had missed last week’s game at Annan. “Robbie gave us a good 60 minutes and scored a good goal, indeed it was pleasing to see five different goal scorers. Stevie May scored his 11th goal, Ryan Harding got his 1st goal for the club, Ross McCord scored a cracking goal and Craig Campbell rounded it off with a spectacular effort, we scored some really good goals today and I’m pleased for everybody. “Even after losing such an early goal I knew we would come back because of the type of players we have at the club – we keep going and even at 5-1 up we still wanted to score more goals, I knew we would get back into the game and chances would open up – today was great, however because we took some of these chances.”

weecounty

weecounty sport

Tuesday 13.3.12

FOOTBALL Photographs by Jim Hensby

IRN BRU DIV 3 - RESULTS TUESDAY 6TH MAR 2012 Elgin 3 Annan Athletic 0 C.Gunn 28’ A.Muirhead (og) 35’ D.Niven Goal 78’ SATURDAY 10TH MARCH Alloa 5 East Stirling 1 R.Winters 26’ A.Lurinsky 1’ S.May 43’ R.Harding 60’ R.McCord 72’ C.Campbell 81’ Annan Athletic 1 Stranraer 3 S.Swinglehurst 4 C.Aitken (pen) 13’ F.McKeown 45+2’ C.Malcolm 87’ Elgin 1 Peterhead 2 M.Nicolson 2’ M.Bavidge 38’ J.Redman 53’ Montrose 1 Berwick 1 M.Boyle 49’ D.Gray 80’

IRN BRU DIV 3 - Fixtures: SATURDAY 17TH MAR 2012 Berwick v Queens Park Clyde v Annan Athletic East Stirling v Elgin Peterhead v Alloa Stranraer v Montrose

Irn Bru Division 3: League Table Alloa Athletic Stranraer Queen’s Park Elgin Annan Athletic Peterhead Berwick Clyde Montrose East Stirling

Pld W 28 10 28 8 27 7 28 10 28 7 28 5 28 3 27 4 28 4 28 4

D 3 2 4 3 4 4 4 3 3 3

L 1 4 2 2 4 4 6 7 7 7

W 8 6 7 3 4 5 5 2 3 1

D 3 5 2 4 3 1 6 5 2 2

L GD Pts 3 23 60 3 30 49 5 21 48 6 14 46 6 17 40 9 19 35 4 27 34 6 9 26 9 19 26 11 11 20

weecounty sport Sauchie win local derby match

Page 28 - 29

By Sports Reporter

lloa’s win at the weekend puts them in a very strong position for the run in games in the Irn Bru Third Division. The Recreation Park side are currently sitting eleven points clear with just 8 games left to play. Whilst talk of promotion or even league champions is being played down by all at the club, it is however a very real and distinct possibility that the Wasps will go on to secure at least a play-off position. When looking at the league table, with just the 8 games to play, Alloa only need 16 points from their remaining fixtures to walk away with the league. That is of course, if the chasing pack keep winning each week. Should any of the chasers fail to win, and the Wasps secure maximum points, the points required for championship winner status also falls. Paul Hartley has instilled belief and team spirit in the team that has seen the Wasps bounce back after two league defeats in a row. League champions would be the fitting way to end a very entertaining and successful season for the Wasps, as they have been after all, the team to beat in the league this season.

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