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welcome to participate in the day. We have several groups attending with stalls representing local and cultural interests.

For further details contact or to suggest your own contributions contact John Webster tel: 01505 842 8 8 2 E X T 2 2 o r e m a i l john.webster@clydemuirshiel.co.uk.

New Baby Many congratulations to Fiona and Joe Greenlees on the safe arrival of their baby daughter Eilidh.

After hanging in there for an extra few weeks Eilidh finally appeared at 06.30 on Sunday the 5th of June weighing in at a healthy 8 pounds 6 ounces.

All your friends in Lochwinnoch wish you well.

Important!

Lochwinnoch Surgery & Branch Surgery Beith

COMPUTER SYSTEM REPLACEMENT

During the week beginning 29th August the practice will be installing a new computer system. The disruption this will cause means we will only be able to open on an

emergency basis and will have a reduced number of appointments available the following week.

Please order enough repeat prescriptions in advance

CSRC Learn to Row Summer 2011

Introductory course aimed at complete beginners and taking place over three consecutive Saturdays (10am-2.30pm):

2nd July

9th July

16th July Training covers basic rowing t e c h n i q u e s , e q u i p m e n t a n d terminology.

The fee is £75 which includes all training, equipment, insurance, soup & roll lunch and gives you two months membership after the end of the course.

Training will be largely water-based, weather permitting. Absolutely no previous experience is needed and you don’t have to be fit to start however you do need to be able to swim and to be over 18* (junior course available)

Places are limited

www.lochwinnoch.info/clubs/rowing

Castle Semple 40th Birthday Celebration

July 17th On July 17th, 1971 the centre was officially incorporated into Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and this July 17th 2011, park staff are planning a big celebration. The Regional Park would like to invite you and your family to what is sure to be a huge party!

They say that life begins at forty and certainly the watersports club scene has never been healthier. The sailing, rowing, kayak and windsurfing clubs are all participating in a relay pentathlon which will provide one of the highlights on the big day.

There will be heats and a final with all proceeds from the event going to the Teenage Cancer Trust. Entries of individuals or teams (of up to 5 people) are needed. Don’t worry if you don’t have a team -the Ranger Service will act as facilitators for individuals, two’s or three’s who need team mates, just give them your name.

The whole day will have a seventies theme with a fancy dress parade, to which we invite children (of all ages!) to dress up in seventies attire. This will begin at 2.30pm. In addition, there will be seventies music and other period items. Watch out for a drive by of some classic 70’s cars!

In true retro style there will be a raffle, in aid of our chosen charity, with various prizes on offer. See the winning ticket drawn at 15:30.

Inside the Semple Rooms, the Regional Park Staff, with help from the Lochwinnoch Elderly Forum, will have a display on memories of the Loch from the last 40 years. Do you remember the 50 passages up to the maze in Parkhill Wood? Share your memories with us!

Apart from the watersports clubs, all other village clubs and interests are

CHATTERBOX No 211 JULY 2011

www.lochwinnoch.info

Community newsletter produced by Lochwinnoch Community Council

Nuisance Helpline Anti-Social Behaviour

Noise problems Support and Advice

Every day 9am – 10pm Tel: 0800 169 1283

ASIST Anti-Social

Investigation Team

Office 8:45am – 4:45pm

Tel: 0141 840 2163

What’s On & Dates for your Diaries

Village events, clubs, classes, etc are in the centre pages

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Garthland Arms.

The Fun run started and ended in the Park this year with Robert Wilson presenting the prizes to the winners. We thank Robert for all his duties on Gala Day and not f o r g e t t i n g t h o s e w o n de r f u l doughnuts too!

As a thank you to Robert the Gala Day Committee will be donating to the Salvation Army (Robert's Charity) on Robert's behalf.

We have to thank the following people for their help:

Renfrewshire Council for allowing the use of the Annexe beyond its closure date.

Paul Sale of Renfrewshire Council for being in attendance at the Annexe on the day.

Thomas Taylor for uplifting tables and chairs.

Ben Richardson and Alter Landscapes for providing the Arena fencing.

Eric Beattie for St. John's Ambulance cover.

Sandy Innes at the Corner Bar for the Beer Tent

Karen at the Garthland Arms for the staging.

Gill Bell for the Queen and Attendant's gowns.

Helen Campbell for the flowers.

Yvonne Ross for publicity. The winning Lucky Programme numbers are : 64, 118, 334, 384, 402, 638, 649, 797, 825, 895, 962. If you have one of these numbers please present your programme to the Calder Gallery & Framing where you can collect your prize.

Lochwinnoch Gala Day

Gala Day broke with tradition this year. It rained! However, thankfully, it did not seem to deter people.

The day started with the parade leaving from Auld Simon. The children and adults too looked the part in their Superheroes costumes. The Queen, Zoe Dutch and her attendants Eilidh McIntyre and Shannon Webber looked resplendent in their dresses. Many thanks go to James O'Neill and Chris Gould for providing and driving the Queen and attendants in their open top cars.

On their arrival at the Park, retired Lochwinnoch baker Robert Wilson crowned our Queen before officially declaring the Gala Day open and judging the Fancy Dress. Robert kindly gave a silver sixpenny piece to each child assembled in the arena as a little memento of the day.

The Parent and Toddlers group followed with a display of Zumba. It was a lively and energetic display which attracted others into the arena to join in. Unfortunately the rain decided to join in too! The duck race had more than enough water to help the winning ducks sail to victory.

Morag's keep fit boys and girls did a superb job keeping everyone watered and fed. So many thanks to those involved in the Tearoom. The Music Tent, which this year we have to thank Tony Finn for organising, went down a treat. The music definitely helped everyone forget the awful weather. We must also thank Billy Gray and friend Bruce for providing the sound system and acting MC.

The Garthland arms won the five aside football again but as the cup has mysteriously disappeared we were unable to present it. If anyone knows of its whereabouts could you please contact Karen at the

We have to thank the following businesses for their support in donating prizes:

The Garthland Arms

The Brown Bull

Now and Then

Calder Gallery & Framing

The Papershop

Penman's Pharmacy

La Dolce Vita

Shimla Take Away

Cut and Care

Natural Touch Lastly, on a personal level, I would like to thank my Committee: Helen Day and Kate Lilley, for organising the Parade; Pat Mill for liaising with the school, local businesses and helping on the day; Lee McKinlay for distributing fliers and spending night after night collecting bottles for our bottle stall; Jane Owens for organising the Bottle Stall, sticking tickets on all those bottles, and feeding the Saturday morning helpers with Bacon & Sausage Rolls from La Dolce Vita; Hazel Dundas for help on the day; Rev. Christine Murdoch for organising the Fun Run from the Park and also programme design.

Thanks to all those who helped on the Saturday Morning too.

Christine Brown

Lochwinnoch Gala Day Chairperson

Zumba Thanks

I would like to say a very big Thank-you to everyone who took part in our sponsored Zumba challenge at the Gala day - especially to Julie our local Zumba teacher for all her support, to all my crazy Zumba pals for dressing up and to all the Zumba virgins that got up there and gave it their best.

We managed to raise a over £800.00 pounds for our Mother and Toddlers Group which is fantastic and will ensure that our group will stay open. We had great fun and a good laugh (as I’m sure some of the people watchinghad too !) and It just shows what is possible when you get together and put in the effort. THANKS AND WELL DONE EVERYONE! Cheryl Milligan

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Tawny Owl Chick: Hayley Douglas

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guessing games as well as stands representing recreational and cultural interests.

Still URGENTLY wanted - participants for the watersports pentathlon. All funds raised on the day to the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Pound & Pace Charity Walk This year the Pound and Pace was a roaring success with 47 people raising over £220 for our chosen charities, Ardgowan Hospice and Erskine Hospital. Although the weather wasn’t at it’s best, the group were still in great spirits with lively chatter all round. Even a few participants from our recent Branching Out volunteer programme (run at the centre from March-May) took part!

Summer Holiday Happenings! Not sure what to do with the kids this summer holiday? Why not bring them to our FREE family events! See our

Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park July 17th

Castle Semple Centre Fortieth B i r t h d a y C e l e b r a t i o n s Come along to the fortieth birthday celebrations at Castle Semple on Sunday 17th July! All events will be taking place between 11:00 and 16:00hrs. There will be so much to see and do on the day with a 70’s dress parade, raffle and a classic car drive past! In the centre’s Semple Rooms there will be local’s memories of the recent past, intriguing

‘What’s On’ guide or our website for more information on programmes at the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre and Muirshiel Visitor Centre. There are also various events running throughout North Ayrshire by our Castle Semple team. Don’t forget the whole family can also hire bikes and boats throughout the holidays!

L I V E W i l d l i f e V i e w i n g O p p o r t u n i t i e s There is plenty to see at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park LIVE on camera this June with Hen Harriers and Swallows projects. Depending on whether there is a suitable nesting site for transmission, Muirshiel Country Park’s Hen Harriers, will be available to view in the visitor centre as they settle down for breeding. If we don’t have a suitable nest then see highlights from previous years. At time of going to print, our Swallows at the Greenock Cut Centre had 4 eggs - visit soon to check on their progress!

Photographic Competition 2011 Our first entries are in! There is £250 to be won. Look online or pick up a leaflet at a Visitor Centre for details. The theme is ‘Woodlands of Clyde Muirshiel’ as it is International Year of Forests.

In addition to the Regional Park website (www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk) the Park now has facebook and twitter pages. Do ‘ f o l l o w ’ u s w w w . t w i t t er . c o m /clydemuirshiel or ‘like’ us on w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m /clydemuirshielregionalpark you can see what is going on without having your own account.

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Monday 8th to Friday 12th August 10-12 am each day. This year the Club has a jungle theme. At Lochwinnoch Library children will find plenty to entertain them in even the worst weather. The Circus Stars summer reading challenge is about more than sitting reading and has an exciting website where children can create their own avatar and go on a journey through games and activities. Free. Tel: 01505 842305

Other Useful Information Free Badminton at Renfrew High, Fridays 6 to 9 pm for young people 10-19, no booking required. For Info phone: 0141 445 121 email: kirsty@badmintonscotland.org.uk Y-Dance Garnock Valley, Tuesdays, Walker Hall, Kilbirnie, from 5 July, 12 – 2pm P7/S1+ Free. Fantastic Street Dance/Hip Hop session. B e g i n n e r s w e l c o m e . No Booking required. Contact Liz McCallum 01505 683874 or 01294 833173

lmccallum@north-ayrshire.gov.uk

Elderly Forum In spite of there being no heating in the McKillop the meeting went ahead on May 26th.

It was a shortened version however with no visiting speakers. Maggi Boyd who was due that day will hopefully have formed our singing group at the June meeting on the 30th.

Remember there is no Forum meeting in July. The next regular monthly meeting is on Thursday 25th August when we hope to see a return visit from John Webster to give us the full presentation of 40

years of Clyde Muirshiel Country Park.

Everyone enjoyed the outing to Burn's Cottage and the Burn's Museum on June 8th. It all went very well. Many thanks to ROAR who paid the cost of the Crawford's bus and thanks to the driver for a pleasant journey.

The Tbar will be having a summer break being closed from Tuesday 28th June and reopening on Tuesday 30th August.

The Lunch Club continues on Thursdays at 11.45am, closed only on 28th July and 4th August. Regular diners will be pleased to know that the usual lunches from Johnstone High School kitchen will continue to be served during July and August.

ROAR is preparing a programme of activities beginning in September and these will be published in Chatterbox. Flyers will be handed out nearer the time.

The Sewing and Craft Club will now be able to meet every Tuesday during July and August starting from 12th July from 10.30am - 12.30pm. All welcome.

Gordon Nicholl 842632

Thank You

I would like thank everyone who visited me in hospital and for all the cards, gifts and good wishes I received. I am now back home and taking things easy.

I'm looking forward to getting out and about and catching up with everyone again soon.

Mima Kilburn

Summer Holiday Time! The school Summer Holiday is upon us, a time of joy for children with a degree of dread for parents. How to keep the little darlings safely occupied, especially in bad weather, without breaking the bank? Never fear, Lochwinnoch offers a number of options.

Lochwinnoch Out of School Club (LOSC) offers a Summer Club running weekdays over 6 weeks suitable for children from P1 to S1. Sessions run 7.35 am – 12.45 pm and 1.00 pm to 6 pm. LOSC offers lots of games, outings and activities that children will enjoy. Cost £90 for 5 days, £22/day and £12/half day. Limited numbers so first come, first served.

Contact LOSC on 07757 801042 RSPB Lochwinnoch Reserve offers a Holiday Club on Fridays 11am – 2pm. Children under 8 yrs must be accompanied by an adult and there are separate groups for younger children and those over 9 yrs. Each session costs £6 or £4 for RSPB members. Adults go free.

Every Monday during the school holidays is Mini-Beast Monday when children can explore the reserve and hunt for bugs and beasties. All through the summer take the challenge and go Pond Dipping or Bug Hunting! Costs £2 for non-members, FREE for RSPB Members, all e q u i p m e n t p r o v i d e d . For more information contact the R e s e r v e o n : 0 1 5 0 5 8 4 2 6 6 3 Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park offers lots to do in all but the very worst weather. Come down to the loch and hire bikes or boats, have a picnic or what about some camping at Barnbrock Farm? There will be lots of other free activities on offer, check the board at the loch, the 'What's On' page on the website or call 01505 614 791. www.clydemuirshiel.co.uk or

w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m /clydemuirshielregionalpark

Half-day (mon-fri 10am-12:30pm / 1pm-3:30pm) multi-activity courses run throughout the summer for children aged 8-11 or 12-15. Cost £85. trail biking, team challenge, kayaking, orienteering and more.

Lochwinnoch Parish Church and Calder United Free Church together run a Holiday Club for primary school aged children from

East Lochhead Self-Catering Cottages

Contact JANET ANDERSON

East Lochhead Self-Catering Cottages Kilbirnie Road, Lochwinnoch

Renfrewshire PA12 4DX Tel: +44(0) 1505 842610

Mob: 07885565131 admin@eastlochhead.co.uk

www.eastlochhead.co.uk

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work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done;” God did not rest for God’s own sake, God rested for our sake.

Time for rest is not just a gift, it is essential for us to have a break from our daily routine. If employers did not have to give us holidays, there are some who would not. Yet enlightened and kindly employers recognise the importance of rest to our well-being and will not just give the statutory minimum, but will reward the hard work of their employees with generous holiday entitlement.

Time for relaxing and rejuvenation is not just about holiday: a change can be as good as a rest, which is why I love the Holiday Club that, along with Calder United Free Church, Lochwinnoch Parish Church runs each year in August. This year we will be inviting all primary school aged children (including those about to start school to come and join the fun and games from Monday 8th August to Friday 12th August from 10 – 12 am each day. On Sunday 14th we will have out Holiday Club Service in the Parish Church. This year our Club theme is “Jungle Jamboree” and I am so looking forward to spending time with the children outwith the usual school setting, having fun and yes, relaxing, albeit in a different way.

However you choose to spend the summer weeks, I do hope and pray you have time to relax, time to spend with family and friends, perhaps even time to be alone and I pray God will continue to bless you all.

Yours,

Genesis 2. 3. All Bible quotes are from the New Revised Standard Version.

Written by Bruce Welch & Brian Bennett 

Psalm 121

Too Early to think about Hogmanay?

Chatterbox has been made aware of ‘Hogmanay at the Port’, Village Hall, Portpatrick, 31st December 2011 in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Those of you considering a Hogmanay trip m a y w a n t t o t a k e a l o o k at: www.hogmanayattheport.co.uk/

From the Parish Church God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it,

because on it God rested from all the work that he had done in creation.

We’re all going on a summer holiday no more working for a week or two.

Fun and laughter on our summer holiday, no more worries for me or you,

for a week or two.

Yes, I have used these quotes before, however as a very wise preacher once said, “If something is worth saying once, it is worth saying again … and again.” This month I am following that advice as I prepare for our summer holidays. This year our schools will be on holiday for just over 6 weeks. It may seem like a long time at the moment and I know many parents will be delighted when the 17th August arrives, yet each year as the schools go back, I am very aware that we are on the slow (sometimes not so slow) slide towards Hogmanay.

As I write our holiday is still four weeks away. While I am looking forward to our holiday, as I keep saying to our son, “Don’t wish your life away,” so I will not going to ignore the time between then and now. In the Church I try as hard as possible not to have meetings in July and August. This is not just so that I can have a rest, it is important for all who work hard in the Church to have a rest too. As in most organisations, it is a relatively small group of folks who undertake most of the hard work and it is vitally important they have a good rest during the summer months. So too for all of us.

Many people in this village are involved in village life in a way that involves hard work: there are people working hard for all three Churches, volunteers serving our youth organisations’ leaders (BB, GB, Football Training, Key Keepers. LOSC, Sunday School, Parents and Toddlers

Group, Parent And Toddler Church, Playgroup, etc.). There is also a whole host of volunteers who enable our clubs to keep functioning and village activities to take place: the Angling Club, the Art Group, the Arts Festival Committee, the Bowling Club, Calderglen FC, the Chatterbox, the Choir; Club Latino, the Community Council, Community Walks, the Curling Club, the Gala Day Committee, Dancing, Drama Club, Drop-in T Bar, the Golf Club, Gymnastics, Improving With Age, Jogging Buddies, Kayak Club, Kids Kickjitsu, the Knitting Group, the Lochwinnoch Writers’ Group, the Masonic Lodge, Morag’s Keep Fit, ROAR Lunch Club, the Rowing Club, the Sailing Club, Scottish Country Dancing, Scottish Slimmers, the Scottish Women’s Rural Institute, the Senior Citizens’ Club, Slinky Strollers, TaeKwon-Do, Viewfield Rovers FC, the Windsurfing Club, Yoga Classes, Zumba. I am sure you will agree this is an impressive list for a small community by anyone’s reckoning and it doesn’t include all the other groups which meet that I don’t yet know about.

We also need to acknowledge who contribute to our village by managing or working for the businesses and services in our community. All these people and all the volunteers, work very hard for our community and on behalf of all who use your services, I say, “Thank you. Please find time to rest.”

A summer holiday need not be time away from home, yet it does need to be time away from our normal responsibilities and duties. In Genesis chapter 2 we read that after God began the creation of the world God rested. God did not need to rest: God, who Christians believe to be the all powerful, all loving Creator of all that lives and exists, does not slumber nor sleep. Yet in saying that on the seventh day “God finished the

Cut and Care Unisex Salon Monday & Tuesday 9am - 5pm

Wednesday 9am 7pm Thursday - closed Friday 9am - 6pm

Saturday - 8.30am - 12.30pm On Mon and Tues there is an OAP discount

3 Church Street Tel: 842125

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Sailability Open Event The last weekend in May saw the Club hosting its first ever Sailability Open Event. Sailability encourages and supports people with disabilities to sail. Sailing is one of the very few sports in which able-bodied sailors and disabled sailors can participate on equal terms. The participants sailed Challenger Triamarans. A total of 9 boats took part in the racing; seven visitors and two from Options, the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injury Unit at Southern General Hospital.

On Saturday after a blustery windy, sunny, rainy morning the racing got underway. Three races were managed, although several of the sailors were very cold and wet by the end of the afternoon, their courage and determination is to be admired. Luckily, as ever the sun came out for the barbecue.

Unfortunately the conditions were such on Sunday morning that it was agreed that no racing would take place.

The visitors expressed their appreciation for the hospitality extended by the Club and said they were keen for a return visit. If nothing else they certainly didn't leave hungry.

Later in the afternoon one club member thought he might have an outing in a Laser but got no further than the Club gates as the boat was in danger of reaching Howwood before be even had a chance to launch it!

24 Hr Event The Club will be holding its annual 24 Hr Event over the weekend of 25/26 June – come down to the Loch and watch the fun! If you are interested in hav in g a sa i l p le ase em ai l mirtosanatoli@yahoo.co.uk and we can arrange a suitable time for you (as always weather permitting!) See Website www.castlesemplesc.co.uk

Pawsitive Action

What a great day it was at Lochwinnoch Gala, despite the rain pouring down when we were all getting started, but the weather didn’t dampen the spirit or fun at the Pawsitive Action tent. All day we had crowds attending, participating in our pet companion show, I think the favourite was the egg walk with your dog, it made us laugh so much each entry won an equal prize.

A few of our brave volunteers demonstrated the steps of basic obedience and showed how to do a Park exercise that will get your dog under control. Pawsitive Action encourages children 10 years and older to attend classes with their parents to participate in the training and Nicole Hall age 12 with her 8 month puppy Snowy showed the crowd how she was able to teach her pup in two weeks to do a few little extra tricks.

All dog owners received information and free dog bags helping to promote Responsible dog ownership. Again everyone, volunteers and the general public enjoyed themselves and the dogs had a great time playing with one another.

We have been invited by Mr Eddie Andrews on Saturday 13th August, T h e H u b , W e l l h o u s e C r e s , Easterhouse, Glasgow, 10am-3pm. So come along with your pooch and have a great time with the family pack.

www.k9chat.co.uk

01505 842885

Castle Semple Sailing Club

GP14 Travellers Event Despite the lack of summer weather , the Sailing season is now well advanced at Castle Semple. In early May the Club hosted a GP14 Travellers event, with 10 boats taking part, five of whom were from visiting Sailing Clubs (Arran, Derwent and Annandale).

On Saturday the weather was not at its best and resulted in the course being changed after the briefing and the boats were out on the loch. Only three races were managed before the wind died and it was agreed to come in for " S t a n ' s b a r b e c u e " i n t h e rain. Despite the rain, spirits (both sorts) were not dampened and it was agreed to retire to the Brown Bull, which was a very enjoyable evening. Despite looking after the visitors extremely well they all appeared, albeit somewhat bleary eyed, early the next morning.

Weather wise, Sunday was no better with a lot of rain falling soon after the start and the wind doing the same. After three hours and 3 races, the OOD said it was time for a break. The kitchen decided that given the conditions it would be nice to offer the participants a "wee swally" of soup at the jetty so the Soup Ladies appeared.

Needless to say, as soon as the boats were out of the water the sun came out for a lovely breezy afternoon.

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The epic tale of Harry Clifton's life begins in 1920, with the chilling words, 'I was told that my father was killed in the war'. But it will be another twenty years before Harry discovers how his father really died, which will only lead him to question: who was his father? Is he the son of Arthur Clifton, a stevedore who worked in Bristol docks, or the first born son of a scion of West Country society, whose family owns a shipping line?

Volume one takes us from the ravages of the Great War to the outbreak of the Second World War, when Harry must decide whether to take up a place at Oxford, or join the navy and go to war with Hitler's Germany.

Christopher Brookmyre : Where the bodies are buried.

Detective Catherine McLeod was always taught that in Glasgow, they don't do whodunit. They do score-settling. They do vendettas. They do petty revenge. They do can't-miss-whodunit. It's a lesson that has served her well, but Glasgow is also a d a n g e r o u s p l a c e t o m a k e assumptions. Either way she looks at it, she recognises that the discovery of a dead drug-dealer in a back alley is merely a portent of further deaths to come.

Elsewhere in the city, aspiring actress Jasmine Sharp is reluctantly - and incompetently - earning a crust working for her uncle Jim's private investigation business. When Jim goes missing, Jasmine has to take on the investigator mantle for real, and her only lead points to Glen Fallan, a gangland enforcer and professional assassin whose reputation is rendered only slightly less terrifying by having been dead for twenty years. Cautiously tracing an accomplished killer's footsteps, Jasmine stumbles into a web of corruption and decades-hidden secrets that could tear apart an

entire police force - if she can stay alive long enough to tell the tale.

Quintin Jardine : Grievous angel ( B o o k 2 1 S k i n n e r s e r i e s ) Skinner revisits his nightmares: old but not forgotten. Fifteen years in the past, newly promoted Detective Superintendent Bob Skinner is called to investigate a most brutal death. A man lies at the deep end of an empty swimming pool, his neck broken and almost every other bone in his body shattered. Soon, an organized crime connection looms, and bloody retribution spreads to a second city. Violence then erupts on a new front, as a vicious knifeman seems to be targeting Edinburgh's gay population. As if this double dose of homicide isn't enough for a single man with a teenage daughter to raise and protect, Skinner's personal life takes a similar, perilous twist. Can he stay on the side of the angels, or will he fall?

Erica Spindler : Watch me die Stained glass restoration artist Mira Gallier is on the verge of having it all--again. The love of a good man. Professional success. And finally, after years of pain at the loss of her husband to Hurricane Katrina, peace and emotional stability. But a new nightmare begins when a strange man called "The Preacher' attacks her, and a terrifying chain of events is set in motion: the Preacher is found dead, the first of seven windows Mira restored after Katrina is vandalized, and her house is broken into. FABULOUS new collection of cookery & craft books are now in stock a t L o c h w i n n o c h L i b r a r y . From Hairy Bikers to River Cottage and lots in between. Looking for inspiration ? A new selection of craft books including Art, knitting, crochet,

sewing, jewellery and card making.

Bookbug Rhymetime Every Tuesday at 9.30am

Come along and join in the fun

Suitable for children aged birth–4 years

Lochwinnoch Community Library

Lochwinnoch Library Opening Hours

Monday, Tuesday , Friday & Saturday

10am – 1pm 2pm – 5pm

Wednesday 2pm-5pm 6pm-8pm

CLOSED THURSDAY

Tel: 01505 842305

Services Available:

Free Broadband Internet

Free document Shredding facility

Photocopier & printer (15p per black & white copy)

Fax (Charge depending on UK or Overseas destination)

Advice Works Surgery @Lochwinnoch Library

This is now an APPOINTMENT ONLY based surgery. For further details please contact : 01505 382328 We can provide advice about entitlement to benefits.

Advisors can help fill in claim forms and can check you are receiving all the benefits due to you

New Titles: Jeffrey Archer : Only time will tell.( "Clifton Chronicles" Book 1)

Professional Freelance Wedding Florist Elaine Lamont Free home consultation

Tel: 01505 506169

Mob: 07505 735733

Email: elamont@live.co.uk

www.elainelamont.co.uk

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is called Circus Stars. Children are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice during the holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal for every child who completes the Challenge. There will also be fun activities in the library.

An interactive Circus Stars (www.circus-stars.org.uk) website is due to launch at the end of May, linking children with top authors and illustrators, and giving them space to talk about their favourite books and to share reading ideas. Circus Stars also promotes their local library as a place of wonder for children, where library staff can offer them invaluable advice and guidance.

The Summer Reading Challenge begins on July 2nd but children can sign up early at Lochwinnoch Library on Wednesday 29th June.

My Opinion B y n o w t h e r e s i d e n t s i n Lochwinnoch will have read Councillor David Arthur's report that our Library is to remain in the Old School for the foreseeable future, Wow! Could this change of mind have anything to do with an election that just happens to be on the horizon?

It is said in politics, that the general public have a memory that only lasts

Bookbug's Library

Challenge Bookbug's Library Challenge is a free programme that e n c o u r a g e s children aged birth to four to discover and enjoy

their local library.

On their first visit to the participating library children are issued with the Bookbug's Library Challenge collector card. Every time they visit the library the collector card will be stamped, and your child can exchange four stamps for one of our beautifully illustrated Library Challenge certificates.

Your child's name will be written on the certificate to encourage them to feel proud that they have become members of their local library. There are five different limited edition certificates to collect. So start collecting now – it's never too early or too late to join your local library... and it’s FREE!

Reading takes centre stage!

Circus Stars: the 13th Summer Reading Challenge

launches Roll up! Roll up! Lochwinnoch Library is getting ready to introduce children to a summertime circus spectacle that will keep them reading throughout the school summer holidays....with the 2011 Summer Reading Challenge™.

And it’s all free fun, which is top news for parents! The Summer Reading Challenge is all about helping children love reading, gain confidence and new skills. So mums, dads and carers, pop down to Lochwinnoch Library and find out more!

The 2011 Summer Reading Challenge

one month. This could well be true, for we saw, in the expenses scandal, many MPs who thought they would lose their seats and didn't, because the public forgot about their shameful behaviour. Please, lets not forget that Mr Arthur, and Mr McFee (SNP) rewarded the people of Lochwinnoch, who elected them, by voting to down-grade their Library which was the first phase to closure. Lets not forget that it was the SNP Councillors who were responsible for closing our local museum which was also housed in the Old School building.

The people of Lochwinnoch need to send out a message to Councillors, that tells them that they are there for the good of the people, and not the people for the good of the Councillors. We need to tell them that they do not have a job for life at our expense. Therefore, I would urge someone in the village to stand as a Councillor against Mr Arthur and McFee in the coming election.

The people of Lochwinnoch owe much, to the local pressure group who were responsible for this change of heart by the SNP council.

Sincerely,

Mr Alex Lennox

59 Braehead, Lochwinnoch

** Mr Lennox is expressing only his personal opinion. Ed.

Yoga There will be no Yoga Classes in July. We return on Wednesday August 3rd and I would find it useful if people e mail : maryhlaidlaw@aol.com or phone 842877 to let me know if they want a place in August classes, as space is limited and there will be ONE CLASS at 7pm".

SOLAR ELECTRICITY GENERATION find out more

www.lochwinnoch.info/leap Contact:

leap@lochwinnoch.info or phone 842 530

or pop into The Hub, 22 Church Street

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What’s On Regular clubs, classes and

groups

First Friday of Month—Semple Tones host an open mike session at Lochwinnoch Golf Club. Come along, don't be shy

Healing and Creativity Workshops & Classes. For details or to book a place, please Tel Becky: 0141 8816700 or Libby on: 015105 842604.

Lochwinnoch Community Walks - Mondays (ex. Public Holidays), meet at 10.30 am at The McKillop Institute.

Lochwinnoch Playgroup—For under 5’s, every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9.30-11.30am at the McKillop Institute.

Lochwinnoch Toddlers—Mondays and Wednesdays from 9.30 - 11.30am, McKillop Institute.

Lochwinnoch Gymnastics Club - For primary school-age children every Monday, 5-8pm at the Annexe. Phone Coby on: 0772 9051615.

L o c h w i n n o c h W r i t e r s Group—Monday mornings from 9.30-11.30am in the Library.

Knit @ The 19th at the Golf Club— Monday 10am-12 noon (or longer), all levels and learners welcome.

Advice Works—At the Library by appointment only. Contact 382328

Morag’s Keep Fit—Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm, in the McKillop Institute.

L o c h w i n n o c h C h o r a l Society. Rehearsals on Monday evenings, Parish Church/ Hall. Juniors 7-7.45pm, Intermediates 7.30-8.30pm and Seniors 8pm-9.15pm.

C l u b L a t i n o — w e e k l y Merengue, Salsa and Mambo classes for adults on Monday evenings at Lochwinnoch Bowling Club from 8.30-9.30pm. Details from Hazel on: 07812 023343.

Lochwinnoch Art Group—Meet fortnightly on Monday evenings, 7.30pm, McKillop Institute.

Keep Fit - Improving With Age classes, every Tues from 10-11am at the McKillop Institute.

Drop-in T Bar - Lochwinnoch Elderly Forum. Every Tuesday from 10am-1pm, McKillop Inst. Closed 28 June reopens 30 August For details, Tel Betty 703727

Linda Margaret School of Dancing—Tuesdays from 4pm-8.45pm, McKillop Institute. For details, Tel: 0141 581 9104.

TaeKwon-Do—Fitness and Self-defence classes for youths and adults. Tuesdays from 5-6pm, M c K i l l o p I n s t i t u t e a n d Thursdays from 7pm-8pm at Lochwinnoch Primary School. For details Tel: 01259 210716.

Lochwinnoch Scottish Country Dance Club—Every Tuesday, from 7.30-9.30pm, McKillop Inst.

Jogging Buddies—Wednesday evenings. Meet at McKillop Inst. at 6.30pm. For details, Tel: 0141 887 1357 or 07947 763704.

Girls Brigade—1st Lochwinnoch Company, Wednesday evenings from 6pm-9.15pm at the Parish Church Hall for various age groups.

Boys Brigade - Anchor Boys and Junior Sections meet on Tuesday nights, Parish Church Hall.

Yoga Classes—no classes in July, return 3 August, only 1 class 7pm. call 842877 to book.

Happy Harminis—Fun for pre-school children on Thursdays 10am-11am, McKillop Inst. Tel: Frankie : 01505 612248.

Slinky Strollers—Thursday mornings

ROAR Lunch Club—every Thursday from 11.45am PROMPT at the McKillop Institute. Please Note - ONLY ONE SITTING.

TaeKwon-Do Little Tiger Cubs. Classes for 3-5 year olds, on Thursdays from 4.15pm-5pm at McKillop Inst. Tel: 01259 210716

C a l d e r D r a m a C l u b —Thursdays, from 8pm-10pm McKillop Institute.

Scottish Slimmers—Thursdays, 7/7.30pm, McKillop Inst.

Lochwinnoch Pre-School Gymnastics (for children from 18 mths to 5 yrs). Fridays, from 10.15am - 1.45pm at the Annexe. Further details from Coby on Tel: 0772 9051615.

Dog Training at the Annex (pre-booking necessary). Anne Moss, Tel: 01505 842367, e-mail: dogtraining@f2s.com

Mondays 9.30am-Adv/Intermediate 10.30am-Juvenile/

Intermediate

Tuesdays 6.30pm - Puppy Course 7.30pm - Juvenile/

Intermediate 8.30pm—Adv/Intermediate

Thursdays 6.30pm - Puppy Course 7.30pm - Juvenile/

Intermediate 8.30pm - Adv/Intermediate

Some activities may cease during holidays, please check

Q J Quinn & son

Memorials

Personal Service & Quality

Guaranteed

New Memorials

Additional Inscriptions

Cleaning & Renovations

SALE ITEMS ALWAYS IN STOCK

42 MAIN STREET

KILBIRNIE

Please Call 01505 68 5455

Mon & Fri 10am-5pm

Tue-Thur 10am-2pm

Sat 10am—1pm

11

We are in the process of changing leagues from the Central Ayrshire Youth Football League to Paisley and Johnstone District Youth Football League. This league has a very high standard of teams and we are looking to strengthen our squad. As Lochwinnoch i s o n l y 1 5 / 2 0 m i n u t e s away and has no football team of this age group we would like to invite any interested players to come for a trial at Largs Colts. Any successful players will be provided with training strip, tracksuit and team kit bag.

Training takes place on Tuesday and Thursday 6.00-8.30pm.

Due to our age group we are looking for players born in 1998 or early 1999.

If you are interested contact Tony on 0 7 7 7 0 6 0 1 7 8 6 o r e m a i l largscolts@yahoo.co.uk

Forthcoming Events

Sat 2 July—Summer Reading Challenge for children- Circus Stars, starts Lochwinnoch Library.

Sun 3 July—RSPB Reserve 12 noon – 4pm Fantastic frogs: The Great Frog Hunt! Yearly search for frogs and toads! Join in with our amphibian hunt, take part in frog activities and find out more about the wildlife on the reserve.

Fri 8,15, 22, 29 July—RSPB R e s e r v e 1 1 a m - 2 p m Lochwinnoch Holiday Club. Join us to take part in a wide variety of activities which could range from mini-beast safaris, pond/river dipping, survival skills, wildlife gardening or indoor activities if the weather is poor. To receive an update on what the activities will be, p l e a s e e m a i l Lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk.

Mon 4,11,18, 25 July—RSPB reserve 11am – 4pm Mini-beast Mondays Grab a bug hunting kit and explore the reserve with the help of the Lochwinnoch team. Turn up any time during the day and spend as little or as long time as you like.

Sat 16 July—RSPB Reserve 7am - 1 0 a m B i r d R i n g i n g Demonstration A chance to see birds up close! Join the team at Lochwinnoch and ringers from the British Trust of Ornithology to find out why we ring birds and how it can help with conservation efforts.

Sun 17 July—Castle Semple 40th Birthday Celebrations 1 1 a m - 4 p m a t t h e l o c h Fancy Dress Parade starts 2.30pm

Sun 17 July—RSPB Tower Hide, 1930 - 2130, The Hide-away Tour Join us for a unique experience, as contemporary singer/songwriter Kate Doubleday and her band play an exclusive concert live from the RSPB Lochwinnoch tower hide. Places are limited so booking necessary. Free event!

Sat3 & Sun 31 July—RSPB Optics Weekend 10am – 4pm An opportunity to choose from a wide range of competitively priced binoculars and telescopes, including RSPB Optics, with the added bonus that 100% of the profits go directly to helping conservation. FREE expert advice available all weekend.

Police Report The local police report that crimes have increased by 14%, mainly crimes of theft. The difficult economic situation means that such crimes are more likely to increase than not.

Police want to make villagers aware of the number of thefts of lead from roofs. The Parish Church has suffered badly from two thefts of lead. Please keep an eye out and don't hesitate to report any suspicious activity to the police.

Villagers should also be aware of increased theft of goods from cars. Police advise that nothing should be left visible in cars. Place any goods in the boot or otherwise out of sight.

We are advised to report all crimes to the police whether or not you think them serious. As we know these days statistics are everything and if we don't report crimes then the statistics will show we don't need police patrols. If you want police patrols then report ALL crime.

Police (non emergency) tel: 01505 844890 (Lochwinnoch) 01505 404000 (Johnstone)

Under 14s Football Largs Colts are a local youth football club that have been

on the go since 1975. We play a big part in youth football in the community, training twice a week and playing on Saturdays.

We hold many fundraising events with a view to attending at least one football tournament abroad each season.

Editorial and Copy for Chatterbox

Let us have your stories, notices, news, information, events and items

of interest – either hand-deliver them to the Chatterbox drop-box in the

Library or preferably e-mail them to us at: chatterbox@lochwinnoch.info

Electronic submission with full colour pictures are preferred.

To advertise in Chatterbox

Tel: 01505 842632

chatterbox@lochwinnoch.info COPY DEADLINE FOR AUGUST IS

FRIDAY 15TH JULY

Word Search—”around the houses” (20 words)

Answers on back page

D R A I N I N G B O A R D

I R E K O O C O D R L R R

B T E N I B A C L O M I H

I I D T R T C W C L O L A

A L B C B A C K D O O R L

O E O U R A N H S F R K L

F S I P E I T N E T D O O

E O E B S I I H T N E R I

R T R O W A R D R O B E A

E L B A T E E F F O C G A

C M E R E W O H S N O N R

I B U D O O R M A T O M B

T C O N S B P O O B T L F

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and I had to clamber over fallen logs which have now been cleared away. The tall trees resembled arboreal pillars in vast outdoor cathedrals whose naves were paths among rhododendrons and whose apses and chancels were glades and clearings endowing the maze with serenity and tranquillity.

The maze was created by the wealthy Macdowall family who made their fortunes from sugar and tobacco plantations in the West Indies and lived at magnificent Castle Semple House from 1735 till around 1813. It's a rural reminder in Renfrewshire of those enormous religion-inspired mazes throughout the ancient world in places like Babylonia, Egypt, central Asia, southern Africa and South America.

It evokes memories of Christianised mazes at skywards-soaring cathedrals like those in Chartres, France, and Lucca in Italy. But throughout time and distance, maze symbolism proclaims the same eternal message - that life is a personal journey for each and every one of us and that we must follow our chosen paths through dark valleys and along sunlit mountain tops with courage and resolution to self-fulfilment.

When we reach the centre of the maze we come to the heart of our souls and learn for ourselves that there is meaning, purpose and order in every human life, however mundane and trivial we may imagine it to be.

Often when I navigated my way through the maze and stood at soul-illuminating dawns and sunsets on the summit of Courtshw Hill -looking down the gilded valley towards the Three Lochs, I meditated on the immortal lines of poet TS Eliot. These summarise our personal quests during our earthly pilgrimages and the fulfilment of our destinies:

'And the end of all our exploring

Will be to arrive where we started

And know the place for the first time.'

Derek Parker

Derek Parker worked as a countryside ranger at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park from 1985 till 1999.

Solar Panels are Hotting Up!

Interest in Solar Electricity Panels (known as PV – photovoltaic) is growing in Lochwinnoch. Lots of villagers having been dropping into the LEAP office at The Hub on Church Street for information, and some have gone ahead with installations on their roofs in recent months. Luckily, given the weather, PV panels only require daylight, not direct sunlight to generate electricity. The Government pays the householder for each unit of power generated (whether you use it or feed it into the grid). The Which Guide has some very useful information about buying solar panels:

www.which.co.uk/environment-and-saving-energy/energy/guides/how-to-buy-solar-panels , in addition, the Scottish Government, are offering an interest free loan of up to £2,000, repayable over 4 years, towards the cost of purchasing and installing renewable heat and electricity generating systems. You can find out more at:

www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland and search for ‘Home Renewable Loan Scheme’.

Lochwinnoch Car Sharing Club A village Car Club could mean low cost access to a car or the chance to give up the costs of running your own car altogether. LEAP are working with the Carplus Trust to investigating if there is sufficient interest in the village to set up a Car-Sharing Club in Lochwinnoch. To set up a ‘one car scheme’ we need at least 12 villagers to make a commitment and our survey is the first stage in finding out if there is local demand. The car would be located in the centre of the village. To find out more about what it would cost and involve to be a member of the club and have access to the car, take a look at our website pages at: www.lochwinnoch.info/community/leap/car-club . To fill in the survey, please go to: www.carplus.org.uk/LEAP or pick up a leaflet from around the village.

Lochwinnoch Lift Sharing The Hub is a good place for people to meet to arrange the final details of their lift sharing arrangements. If you live in Lochwinnoch and would like to share a lift on a one off or regular basis with someone else – to find out if there are others going your way – log onto www.sptjourneyshare.co.uk and register as a member in the PUBLIC AREA. Then list the type of journey you are interested in sharing. In addition please

Going Round in Circles Since time immemorial horticultural mazes have intrigued men, women and children. Finding one's way through leafy networks of footpaths has an eternal appeal.

The mysterious maze at Parkhill Wood at Castle Semple country park is one of the most famous examples of these landscaped labyrinths in Scotland. Known locally, by generations of Lochwinnoch children, as the Fifty Passages; It embowers woodland trails lined with glossy-leafed rhododendrons and canopied by umbrageous foliage dangling from towering trees.

From the summit of Courtshaw Hill where the maze starts and finishes, there's a panoramic view of Castle Semple, Barr and Kilbirnie Lochs. This is one of the most pleasing vistas in Renfrewshire.

The prime purpose of mazes, like that at Castle Semple, was to impress the land-owner's wealthy guests and visitors by imitating horticultural features at prestigious residences like Balmoral Castle, Blenheim Palace and Hampton Court. It was an expensive way of 'keeping up with the Jones' - especially when 'the Jones' were invariably opulent dukes, marquises and monarchs.

But, beyond the material realm, mazes in ancient times were invested with deep spiritual dimensions mirroring the cycle of the seasons and the human journey through life. I was always aware of these mystic links when I was employed as a ranger at Castle Semple country park when my work routine took me to the maze and Courtshaw Hill every day.

The hill was once the meeting place of 17th century Lochwinnoch witches, wizards and warlocks. That's why it's known as Courtshaw. The 'shaw' was the wood where followers of the pre-Christian Old Religion held 'court.' Nearby Warlock Gates Bridge and Farm also enshrine memories of these distant days of midnight covens beneath moonlit skies.

Often the woodland paths were slippy

35 Gates Road Lochwinnoch PA12 4HF

Independent Financial Adviser and Mortgage Broker (Established 22 years)

For a Free Initial Consultation please call us on 01505 843044/ 07870462798

Or email smfs@btopenworld.com

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

For mortgage advice, we can be paid by commission or a fee of typically 1% of the loan amount.

Stuart Mitchell Financial Services

Mortgages and Remortgages

Savings and Investments Protection

Pensions and Retirement Planning

13

Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who took part in the raffle which raised over £15,000 for the work of the Hospice.

Tickets are still available for the Provosts Raffle where you can win a car. Provost Celia Lawson is donating the proceeds of this raffle between St. Vincent’s Hospice and Accord Hospice.

Tickets are available by contacting the fundraising teams at either Hospice – St. Vincent’s Hospice 01505 705635 or Accord Hospice 0141 581 2000

Forthcoming Event: Heart & Soul Ball, Friday 19th August 2011 This year, we invite you to 'join the love train' and support our Heart & Soul Ball. The evening will commence with a Liquid Soul Cocktail, giving you 'sweet sensations'. After a short address, dinner will be served, followed by an auction and raffle.

We are delighted to inform you that you can 'let the good times roll' and 'dance to the music' of the fabulous "Soul Kings" who will be providing us with soul sounds we can pretend we are too young to remember!! Our fantastic DJ will follow the Soul Kings and continue the mood.

George Bowie has again kindly agreed to give his time to the Hospice, to be our host, and Sheila Bone will be guest auctioneer.

We are living in a challenging financial climate and have therefore reduced the price of this year's ticket to £60 per person. Ladies, keep the costs down, and feel free to shop in your wardrobe for a little black dress! Gents, black is perfect for you too!

We hope you will join us to 'dance the night away'.

For more information and to book your tickets please contact Lorraine Valentine, Events Fundraiser on 0 1 5 0 5 7 0 5 6 3 5 o r e m a i l lorraine.valentine@svh.co.uk

passion in photography. She photographed EVERYTHING and EVERYBODY she met. Some chaps became QUITE cross with her when she asked for their addresses but I'm sure they will be delighted once copies of the photos drop on their doormats or should that be inboxes?

All in all it was a delightful mother and daughter experience. YES DEAR, as you say I haven't had too many of those. And how is Kirsty? Off to Wimbledon? How NICE. OH, the Royal Box, how lovely. Do remind her to wear a shady hat, it wouldn't do to have her spots more inflamed!

As you know, when I left, the place was in SUCH a mess after the septic-tank situation developed. DARLING DADDY came to the rescue! Well, strictly speaking, it was one of his tenants who did the ACTUAL rescuing but Daddy made him do it (something about text messages he didn't want his wife to see). He arrived dressed like a spaceman with long rods and a container of gloop. He did a very good job but I suppose all surgeons are practical – goes with the job, all that hands on activity. I don't suppose we can get him to return next time we have a crisis – he'll surely have learned to be more careful in his texting by then.

Must dash! I won a prize at the Gala and forgot to pick it up. What fun to win best fancy dress – I wasn't even dressing-up! BYEE!

St Vincent's Hospice St Vincent’s Hospice Annual Summer D r a w , F r i d a y 1 0 t h J u n e . The St. Vincent’s Hospice Annual Draw took place on Friday 10th June. The lucky winners are:-

1st Prize—£2000 : Mrs Dyers Ticket No. 51685

2nd Prize £500 : Marie Noone Ticket No. 36158

3rd Prize—32” TV : Mr Millar Ticket No. 33059

let us know at LEAP that you’re interested in sharing a journey and we can act as a match maker.

If you would like to find out more about the project take a look at our webpages at www.lochwinnoch.info/leap or email leap@lochwinnoch.info , phone 842 530 or drop in to The Hub, 22 Church Street to find out more.

Carol Gemmell, LEAP Project Manager

Met Iona Biggar Carr Ouch! Dahling I enjoy running into you but not literally! Where are you off to in such a hurry? REALLY! I'd never have guessed it! Fenella always was IMPETUOUS but MARRYING a man she's known for a couple of WEEKS! And a SURFING instructor! Well, I suppose she always had a weakness for the tanned, young, blonde, handsome, well-built type. Remember Ramon? Well, yes, he wasn't blonde or exactly handsome but he was a body builder and came in useful when one needed oranges squeezing, and he squeezed them in SUCH an UNUSUAL way! What is Fenella's future husband called? Roly Furtwangler? I suppose Fenella Furtwangler rolls nicely off the tongue. But then Fenella ROLLS nicely off most things. Hee hee! I am NAUGHTY!

Oh yes I'm feeling SO much better than when we last met. I was in such a TIZZ!! EVERYTHING has worked out SPLENDIDLY! It turns out that Ivor DOESN'T have a mistress, well not the human kind. He has joined a racehorse-owning syndicate. He owns one leg of a mare called Fenella's Folly – WHAT A COINCIDENCE! He assures me that it will cost practically nothing to feed, house and train a quarter of a racehorse and that his share of the winnings will rebuild the East Wing with plenty to spare. I HOPE he's right!

The weekend in Amsterdam was MOST interesting! Mr van der Valk, Piet to his friends, is a retired detective who has various business interests. He owns a number of charming houseboats in a secluded canal near the red light district. Oh yes, we had a tour and Honor was most fascinated. I found Amsterdam rather tiring – all that jumping out of the way of mad cyclists. Just as well there are so many cafes where one can have herbal tea and those nice (and terribly moreish) brownies. I ate far too many! I seemed to be peckish ALL the time and I've NEVER snoozed so much. I think I was just SOO relaxed.

Honor really enjoyed herself. She trotted off round museums and galleries all day, well she said she did and I didn't hear anything from the police. I think I would have heard if she'd pinched a Rembrandt! I think she has found her

14 14

the top and bottom rails. These rods pass through a middle rail with two big beads on each rod in the top half and five on each rod in the bottom half.

The top and bottom beads on each rod are rarely used and in fact Japanese Abacuses leave them off.

The abacus is a decimal system. The beads in the top space are valued at 5 and the bottom space at 1 each. To begin you move all the beads away from the centre beam. The abacus now contains no value. If you move one down the value goes up to 5. Move one opposite to it up and the value has gone up to six.

At this point you will realise that it is your brain that is the calculator and that the abacus keeps the record. There is no language problem. You can add, subtract, multiply and divide, calculate square roots and cube roots.

For calculations using only a few figures both parts of an equation can be on the same machine. For bigger calculations either pencil and paper or a second machine are called for.

You do need to learn your ten times tables and helpfully up to twelve times.

The best book I have found is

Paul Green's How to use a Chinese Abacus ISBN 978-1-84799-864-4 at about £10.

Paul helpfully prints a chart to enable anyone not knowing the tables to find solutions up to 12 x 12

So if you have a youngster moving up from catching fish alive, go to eBay and see what £20 of bait will do.

Ten to one you will be hooked.

Alan Lovegreen

Ten to One

Recently, I was asked if I would look at some examination papers to determine if using a calculator was essential to a group of blind people. The question was of great importance because while one can buy a sophisticated calculator for less than £5, a blind person needs to spend hundreds of pounds for the same facility with a voice chip to speak the settings and answers.

On the way to resolving the problem, the thought crossed my mind, that, perhaps, the answer lay in using a Chinese Abacus because with these one can feel for the answer. Apparently no one in the group of blind people I work with had tried this.

Many years ago my daughter gave me a big shiny, real Chinese abacus so I took hold of it once more and soon realised that, provided that I bought another one to act as a memory store, many calculations involving figures with up to 13 digits, exactly the same as the calculator, could be managed.

On eBay I bought three rosewood abacuses for £10 the lot, delivered, because the importer had thousands of them and wanted to reduce the stocks. No shortage of memory now. Just the puzzle: why does every child not have a proper one? Why had I not thought about this before?

Why was it that the childhood abacus apparently remains as a toy without method or real purpose when these, in a far off country, are used in every shop?

To begin, as you can see from my pictures, the Chinese abacus is long and narrow with thin rods joining

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Contact Greta Logan on Tel: 01505 683338

Email: greta@thestirrupcup.com www.thestirrupcup.co.uk

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Just opposite the Golf Course on the Largs Rd

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Great for Gifts or treat yourself

www.thestirrupcup.co.uk

15

education of adults and children in the town of Lochwinnoch” and for the Library to remain where it is.

LAAG as a group is not aligned with any political party. As individuals we represent all shades of political opinion and membership of different political parties. However, we can only deal with politicians who will deal with us and so far it is the Labour and Conservative Councillors who have tried to help and the Labour group who have tabled motions in favour of the Library. Despite invitations, Cllr Arthur declines to meet with us.

Until a formal decision is made by Renfrewshire Council to leave the Library where it is, the future is uncertain. As stated above, the Council's intention is to move the Library as soon as the legalities are concluded.

LAAG continues to campaign to keep the Library where it is and save Council Tax-payers money

Renfrewshire Hard of Hearing Group

Come join us for our monthly meetings at the Mile End Centre.

We are a group of people who all have some degree of hearing loss, and we came together to raise awareness, campaign for positive change and provide support and activities for other people like us. Because all our members have some degree of hearing loss, we understand how difficult it can be living in a noisy world. For some it feels easier to withdraw and become isolated, yet we are here to support each other overcome this and to ensure that we get the best use of hearing aids and modern technology to keep ourselves part of the hearing world.

At our meetings, we get the chance to air our frustrations about the numerous difficulties we face and we invite speakers to provide information that may be of use to us, but we have missed because of our hearing loss.

Meetings take place of the first Thursday of every month, with the next meeting scheduled for 7th Jul 2011, at 1:30pm in the Mile End Centre, 30 Seedhill Road, Paisley.

Find out about our hearing aid maintenance volunteering scheme run in conjunction with RNID, about our drop-in clinics around Renfrewshire (with the recently started one in Lochwinnoch!) and about our work in Renfrewshire’s Care Homes. We’re trying to keep Renfrewshire hearing! Our monthly meetings last about an hour and a half and tea/coffee is available.

You are welcome to join us if you live in Renfrewshire and are affected by hearing loss.

For further information or to be put onto our mailing list:

Phone: 0141 847 4950

T e x t p h o n e : 0 1 4 1 8 4 8 7 2 3 2 Fax: 0141 847 4981

Library Action Group Update The Library situation came up at a Council General Management and Finance Board on the 8th June. It was confirmed that the library should be moved to the McKillop once the legal issues are resolved. The Council Legal Dept estimated that this could take anything from a couple of months upwards.

Cllr Langlands (Con. Bridge of Weir) successfully argued that more time be given to Bridge of Weir Library building so that local interested parties could build their business case. This was agreed.

Cllr Langlands then spoke eloquently and positively about the Lochwinnoch Library campaign. Cllr Arthur was invited to speak but declined.

The Labour group put forward an amendment to decide once and for all to leave the Library in the Old School. Unfortunately, the amendment also included a criticism of the ruling SNP/LibDem administration.

The amendment was voted down and the Board (including Cllr Arthur) agreed to move the library once the legal issues are resolved.

While it is understandable that it would be difficult for Cllr Arthur to vote for an amendment that included a criticism of his party (SNP), it is disappointing that he did not take the opportunity to speak up for Lochwinnoch as Cllr Langlands did.

Yet again the financial information provided to Council lors was inaccurate, citing a saving of £15,000 per year when the true figure is £10,200 and a cost £80,000 instead of the real cost of over £100,000.

This decision means that it will be another six months before the issue can again be brought before the Council.

Cllr Arthur has distributed a leaflet where he says he has been fighting to save the Library. We are not disputing this but it is, unfortunately, not reflected in his Council voting record nor has he taken any opportunity to speak for the Library in any Council Board meeting.

We have been telling Renfrewshire Council for months that they did not own legal title to the Library (Old School) building and that it will be a complex and expensive process to gain title. The cheapest alternative is to argue that a library fulfills the demands in the Macdowall Bequest that the building be used “for the

Lee McKinlay

Holistic & Beauty Therapies

Swedish Massage Waxing Aromatherapy Massage Eye Treatments Reflexology Manicure

Facials Pedicure

A mobile service to promote relaxation

Gift Vouchers and Loyalty Cards are available

Telephone 07854 715625

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Where to meet: Events start from the RSPB Lochwinnoch visitor centre unless otherwise stated. Booking, prices and enquiries: It is often necessary to book onto our events in advance as certain events may have limited space. If this is the case, the phrase ‘booking essential’ will appear in the event information. Access for disabled visitors: Our visitor centre, toilets, nature trails and viewing hides are accessible to wheelchair users. We aim to make our events programme suitable for all. However, if you have any special requirements, please tell us in advance.

Events THE DEADLINE FOR THIS YEARS PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION IS FRIDAY 22 JULY, FOR MORE D E T A I L S E M A I L L o c h w i n n o c h @ r s p b . o r g . u k Sunday 3rd July, 12 noon – 4pm Fantastic frogs: The Great Frog Hunt!

Our yearly search for frogs and toads! Join in with our amphibian hunt, take part in frog activities and find out more about the wildlife on the reserve. Stout footwear recommended. Cost: £2, half price for Wildlife Explorer members, adults go free!

Fridays 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th July, 11am - 2pm Lochwinnoch holiday club

On Fridays during the Summer holidays, join us to take part in a wide variety of activities which could range from mini-beast safaris, pond/river dipping, survival skills, wildlife gardening or indoor activities if the weather is poor. To receive an update on what the activities will be, please email Lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk. Please bring a packed lunch and be sure to book in advance. £4 Wildlife Explorer members. £6 non-members. Adults must accompany children aged 8 and under.

Mondays 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th July, 11am – 4pm Mini-beast Mondays

Discover more about the magical world of mini-beasts. Grab a bug hunting kit and explore the reserve with the help of the Lochwinnoch team. Turn up any time during the day and spend as little or as long as you like.

£2 non-members, half price for RSPB members

W a t e r p r o o f s a n d w e l l i e s recommended.

Saturday 16th July, 7am—10am Bird Ringing Demonstration A chance to see birds up close! Join the team at Lochwinnoch and ringers from the British Trust of Ornithology to find out why we ring birds and how it can help with conservation efforts. Stout footwear and waterproofs recommended.

Booking essential. Cost: £2 non-members, half price for RSPB members

Sunday 17 July, 1930 - 2130 T h e H i d e - a w a y T o u r

WELCOME TO LOCHWINNOCH NATURE RESERVE

Wildlife viewing all year round

Nature trails and hides

Visitor centre open 10am – 5pm daily

Superb RSPB shop Bird feeding station and tree-top

tower Daily activities for everyone,

especially families Drinks and snacks Join in with our monthly ‘Wildlife

Challenge’ An ideal day out for everyone from

beginners to experts!

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Join us for a unique experience, as contemporary singer/songwriter Kate Doubleday and her band play an exclusive concert live from the RSPB Lochwinnoch tower hide.

Please book in advance. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

Cost: Free event!

Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st July, 10am—4pm Optics Weekend

An opportunity to choose from a wide range of competitively priced binoculars and telescopes, including RSPB Optics, with the added bonus that 100% of the profits go directly to helping conservation. FREE expert advice available all weekend.

To book a place or to find out more information, phone 01505842663, email Lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk or visit us at the visitor centre. Costs are stated in the event information and entry to our events also includes entry to the reserve. Many of our events are FREE or HALF PRICE to RSPB & Wildlife Explorer members! Contact Us:

RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, L a r g s R o a d , L o c h w i n n o c h , Renfrewshire, PA12 4JF. Telephone 01505 842663/Fax 01505 843026 or email lochwinnoch@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk/scotland

40th Anniversary Congratulations to Muriel and Bobby Cole on the occasion of their Ruby Wedding Anniversary on 12th June 2011.

Best wishes from all your friends.

Common Sandpiper Courtesy of Zul Bhatia

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gear for the trip.

I am delighted that the team has decided to use the trip as a fundraiser for Teenage Cancer Trust, and we would be really grateful if you could help us along the way by sponsoring us or making a donation. Sponsorship forms will be available throughout the village, and donations can also be made online via the TCT website:

http://www.teenagecancertrust.org/get- involved/as-a- fundraiser/fundraisers/lands-end-to-john-ogroats-cycle-2011

ED note, or...

http://tinyurl.com/birthdaymadness

Hopefully we will have more details on the trip in August's Chatterbox.

John Delaney

Christian Aid Lochwinnoch Christian Aid Group was active in and around the village on Christian Aid Week – 15th - 21st May.

The community of Lochwinnoch gave generously in its support when the red envelope came through letterboxes.

OVER 35 volunteers got out there, put out and collected the envelopes.

OVER £ 3016 total cash was collected.

OVER 141 Gift Aid forms were signed adding over £ 350 to the total Christian Aid can claim and use to try to overcome poverty.

OVER £ 3366.00 was the total d o n a t e d b y t h i s v i l l a g e .

Lochwinnoch should be proud that, in very difficult financial times for all of us, we were able to not only to think of others less fortunate than ourselves but also act on their behalf.

Thanks are due to the organising committee, the wonderful mini army of collectors and to everyone in the village who made a contribution.

We have taken an opportunity to make a difference to the lives of those blighted by disease, famine and war.

Lochwinnoch has made a significant attempt to try to end poverty.

Thank you

Camera sold for £1 million!

The world's most expensive camera, a 1923 year Leica, was sold on 28 May in an Austrian auction for 1.3 million Euro.

The Westlicht Auction has become a double world record beater selling the most expensive camera ever and becoming most successful camera auction ever.

The highlight was lot number 1, the extremely rare Leica of the 0-series from 1923, that had an estimated price of between 350.000 to 450.000 Euro.

After a tough bidding battle starting at 200.000 Euro, lasting for 20 minutes, the 88 year old Leica sold for a staggering 1.320.000 Euro (£1.15 million) including premium.

The bidder, a private collector from Asia, is now the new owner of the most expensive camera ever sold worldwide.

TCT News Not The Booze Cruise Many thanks to everyone who ignored the less than perfect weather and joined us on the shiny new boat for the Midsummer Evening Cruise. Happily, everyone aboard seemed to enjoy themselves.

Tony and Jim aka 'Shooting The Breeze' were in great form as usual, and I wish to formally record my thanks to the boys for their fantastic support to the charity over the years in providing their fantastic talents free of charge.

There is still a wee bit of money to come in, but thanks to the generosity and support of everyone who came along we have already made a profit in excess of £3,400 for Teenage Cancer Trust, which is a fantastic result.

Many thanks too to everyone who donated prizes for the raffle and especially to Laura and Fergus for the Brown Bull vouchers.

P.S. Someone left a 'Berghaus' backpack on the boat, and this is now in the Brown Bull awaiting reclaim.

Chips & Opera A belated thanks to Karen Kelly for organising another superb evening at Harry Ramsden's. Karen tells me that the event raised a further £2,400 for the charity, which is another great result. Again, many thanks to everyone who came along and/or made a donation.

Land's End to John O'Groats Cycle To help David McCusker celebrate his 50th birthday, Roger and Jack Carter, John Delaney and Ian Thompson will join David on what is his twisted idea of a birthday party: cycling a 1,000-mile route, the length and breadth of Great Britain.

On August 21st, these 5 young men (ahem!) from Lochwinnoch will set off from Land's End and plan to reach John O'Groats two weeks later on 4th September. Just to make it a bit more of a challenge, David has decreed that there will be no support team etc, so the group will be carrying all their

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WORDCHAT Answers:

kitchen carpet cupboard sink

doormat loft bathroom tiles

cabinet shower bedroom hall

backdoor cooker wardrobe door

curtains lock coffeetable

drainingboard

Some other changes

more dynamic content. The front page has a section which lists pages that have been updated recently and which might be of more interest to readers.

visitor maps - look at where people are viewing the website from. The system excludes most major search engines so the majority of red dots are actual people. Do you know anyone in remote parts of the world with internet access? Ask t h e m t o g o t o www.lochwinnoch.info and see if their dot appears

dynamic menus. The menu system is mostly automatic now which makes it much easier to add new content

Redesigned business directory to make searching more intuitive

F e e d b a c k , c o m m e n t s , suggestions please email barbara@lochwinnoch.info

The Village Website

www.lochwinnoch.info

In October this year the village website will celebrate it's 10th birthday. Reaching that milestone hasn't been easy, with many hours spent behind the computer screen tweaking and coding. It has been a very enjoyable challenge though. People contact me from all over the world with all sorts of questions. I can't always give the answers myself but it has been wonderful to see people coming forward to answer forum posters looking for lost family members or for holiday planning information. We even helped with the renovation of a family headstone for someone and reunited some school friends who hadn’t met for 70 years!

Anyway, on 1st June the website was given a well earned makeover. The new system and design has taken over 6 months to complete and has been supported by some funding from the Community Council for software tools, additional hosting facilities and hardware. Hopefully it will set it up for another 10 years.

Although the design is based on the original design, the underlying website is fundamentally different. It should allow for easier updating and easier maintenance and it should allow groups and people to maintain page content themselves.

Some groups have already taken over maintenance of their pages. e.g. LOSC, Clyde Muirshiel, Calder Church, Rowing Club.

If your group or club would like to be able to maintain your own pages on t h e s i t e t h e n j u s t c o n t a c t barbara@lochwinnoch.info. The editing system is hopefully fairly easy to use so don't worry if you don't have experience. I can always create a few pages for you to practice on until you decide.

CHATTERBOX

Chatterbox is produced and distributed on behalf of Lochwinnoch Community Council, with support and financial assistance from local sponsors and advertisers.

L o c h w i n n o c h C o m m u n i t y Council welcomes all items for possible inclusion for publication in print, web or audio format or any way as thought appropriate by the editorial team

All views are of individuals. The Editor accepts no liability for errors or statements and claims made in submissions.

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