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CHATTERBOXwww.lochwinnoch info
Support and Advice
Every day 9am – 10pm
Tel: 0800 169 1283
Community newsletter produced by lochwinnoch publicity committee for lochwinnoch cc
What’s On
• July/August
See back page for a wide range of
outdoor activities, including
Multi-Activity Weeks and the
Summer Holiday Club events at
RSPB and the Castle Semple and
Muirshiel Centres.
• Advice Works - every
Tuesday from 10am—12.30 in
Lochwinnoch Library.
• Saturday 21st July -
Councillor Arthur’s Surgery,
McKillop Hall from 11.30am.
• Toddlers Storytime -
resumes in August at the Library
- more details in next month’s
issue.
• Big Wild Read -
Lochwinnoch Library is taking
part in this year’s National
Reading Scheme for Primary kids
- “Big Wild Read”. Children can
come in to the library for further
details; further information also
available online at
www.bigwildread.org.uk
PHOTO CONTEST
The RSPB are organising a photo-
graphic contest in August. Pho-
tographers can enter 3 photo-
graphs - 9” x 6” (23x15cm) - that
must be taken within the bounda-
ries of the Nature Reserve. The
photos, either landscape or por-
trait format, can have as their sub-
ject nature, people or landscapes.
Each print must have a title and
an explanation of where the pic-
ture was taken. Contact RSPB on
Tel: 01505 842663 for entry forms.
Closing date for photographic en-
tries is 5pm on Friday 10th August
Get snapping!
No 163 July 2007
COMMUNITY
COUNCIL NOTES
The monthly meeting of the
Community Council took place
on Tuesday 3rd July. A sum-
mary of some of the items on the
Agenda follows.
Councillor Arthur stated that
members of the Community Part-
nership had met on 12th June.
Inspector Bradley reported that
resources are currently being re-
structured to enhance the current
3-shift operation and the new
day-time role of a Liaison Inspec-
tor for our area will be phased in.
This is expected to improve com-
munications between Partnership
members and should eliminate
time-lags due to officers’ shift
patterns. Members of ASIST re-
ported a poor response to their
ongoing issues with Sustrans and
will report back with further
news.
A number of items of correspon-
dence had been received by the
Secretary, including an interim
Core Plan Report from Ren-
frewshire Council. The report is
at the consultation stage and con-
tains information and maps re-
garding public paths and access
routes throughout Renfrewshire.
Members of the public can review
MATTHEW NEW & SONS
ROOFING - ROUGHCASTING -
Emergency Repairs, Storm Damage
Insurance Work, New Roofs, Flat Roofs
Roughcasting –UPVC Cladding—Guttering
Tel No 01505 843400
FMB Certificate No 26366
ASIST
Anti-Social Investigation
Team
Office 8:45am – 4:45pm
Ask for David McLaren or
Lisa Simpson
Tel: 01505 325 030
Editorial & copy for Chatterbox
Let us have your stories, notices,
information, events and other items
of interest — either hand-deliver
them to the Chatterbox drop-box in
the Library or e-mail to:
chatterbox@lochwinnoch.info
To advertise in Chatterbox
Tel: 07899 746403 or e-mail:
chatterboxaccount@btinternet.com
the contents of the report at the
next Public Consultation Day,
which will take place at the
McKillop Hall on Tuesday 21st
August, from 9.30am to 12 noon.
It was reported that the planning
application for Gates Road had
been withdrawn. Views were ex-
pressed by the CC and by mem-
bers of the public on the ‘Zone’
status of the land adjacent to
Gates Road. After some discus-
sion, it was agreed that the CC
would invite Renfrewshire Coun-
cil Planning personnel to a meet-
ing to discuss concerns.
Reports on LCBG and LWFAG
activities were provided to those
present - see inside this issue of
Chatterbox for more information.
Date of next meeting is Tuesday
7th August at 7.30pm in the
Guild Room. Members of the
public are welcome to attend.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE

LOCAL HISTORY
Lochwinnoch was at one time a
favoured day trip destination for
people from Glasgow. It was
about as far as horse-drawn
coaches could get to and from in
one day. Lochwinnoch had
various attractions for the visitor:
pretty countryside, the loch –
used for curling when the
temperature was low enough –
and more pubs than you could
shake a beer mat at.
There would have been more
attractions had William Mac-
Dowall carried out his ambitious
plans to transform part of his es-
tate into a castle along the lines
of Culzean Castle in Ayrshire. In
1791 he commissioned the great
architect Robert Adam to draw
up plans for the castle but, alas,
building never went ahead.
Think how the fortunes of
Lochwinnoch could have been
different if building had pro-
ceeded. The plans, incidentally,
are housed in the Soane Museum
in London.
What MacDowall did construct
on his estate was a canal, an ex-
tensive garden filled with orna-
mental shrubs and trees – now
gone forever - and a rather splen-
did glass and iron conservatory
that was victim to the passion
during the Second World War for
removing all scraps of iron to
supposedly turn them into weap-
ons of mass destruction. Some-
thing that, I believe, never
happened; the pillaged iron
simply rotted away in various
secret locations.
Talking of glasshouses,
Read on ….
WHAT I LIKE
ABOUT …
Before the start of the summer holi-
days, the kids in P7 in Lochwinnoch
Primary School picked up their pen-
cils and wrote about what they like
most about Lochwinnoch.
What they have written gives a
valuable picture of the things kids of
today enjoy in the village.
Here’s a sample -
‘The thing I like in the village is the
park. I like it because it has swings,
Kibble Concert a roundabout and climbing frames.
It is nice to go and play with your
Sir John Kibble was a grand
friends and maybe even meet new
old Scot who famously built a
friends.
camera so big it had to be drawn
Also, there is a playing field where
by a horse and cart; he also in-
people play ball games and walk
vented a floating bicycle that
their dogs.
once conveyed him across Loch
Sometimes events happen there like
Long. In 1865, Kibble built a
the village gala day and football
huge iron-framed greenhouse at
matches.
his home in Coulport, Loch Long.
The River Calder runs nearby. It is
In 1871 the building was moved
nice to fish or paddle if the weather is
pane by pane into Glasgow’s Bo-
good.’ Rachel Hanna.
tanic Gardens.
Kibble Palace, as it came to be
‘I like the youth club because they have
known, survived the wartime
passion for plundering iron and days that you go out to places like:
to this day is one of the most Xscape, indoor football, park + toboggan-
popular visitor attractions in ing.
Glasgow. They get you to pay two pound to get in.
Following recent renovations, That money goes towards getting things for
the greenhouse re-opened and a the youth club. You can also bring some
special evening’s entertainment money for tuck
was devised and presented in the
It is from 7:00pm till 9:00pm. I think it is
palace. Music for the event was
arranged, and some of it was a very good club. The people who take it
written, by Lochwinnoch’s and help run it are very kind and helpful.’
Gordon Rigby. The music was Dawn Keenan
performed by the Lochwinnoch
Choral Society aka the St Win- Continued/….
noch Singers. By all accounts the
music was the best thing in the show
LOCHWINNOCH SURGERY OPENING HOURS
(Tel: 01505 842200)
The Surgery is open between 8.30 am (phones at 8 am) and 6 pm weekdays except
Thursday when it closes at 12 noon. From 12 noon – 6 pm emergency cover is pro-
vided from the branch surgery in Beith. Calls are diverted automatically.
Minor illnesses and injuries can be managed by the Practice Nurses and the Doctors are
available for telephone advice each morning from 11 am – 11.45 am.
Practice leaflets are available from Reception.
Travel Immunisation Advice is available from the Practice Nurse or the Travel Clinic at
Glasgow Airport 0141-848-4800
Out of hours cover is now the responsibility of Argyll & Clyde Health Board.
IF YOU REQUIRE THE URGENT ASSISTANCE OF A DOCTOR OUTWITH THE
ABOVE HOURS PLEASE TELEPHONE NHS 24 ON 08454 24 24 24
Advice is also available on the NHS 24 website at www.nhs24.com
…. What I like about
‘I enjoy many things in Lochwin-
noch, but one of the things I
really enjoy is the youth club
which is going to be renamed
T.N.T. (Thursday Night Thing).
The youth club is really fun. It
has a tuck shop with crisps, jelly,
and sweeties, sometimes choco-
late, cans of juice and more.
It has a large hockey table.
There are two play stations, one
for singstar and one for other
games. It also has a variety of
music and you are allowed to
bring in your own if you want to.
They also take you on exciting
trips to Xscape, tobogganing and
mini-golf. All in all the youth club
is my favourite thing about Loch-
winnoch.’ Matthew Pollock.
‘The thing I like best about Loch-
winnoch is Castle Semple Loch
because there is lots to do. You
can hire boats, take lessons in sail-
ing, windsurfing or rowing or you
can just have a nice walk along the
cycle track.
There is also a nice tearoom that
sells gifts and drinks and scones,
biscuits, sweets and ice lollies.
The thing we like best about the
loch is going on sailing courses. I
have passed level 1 and 2 and am
trying for my level 3 in the sum-
mer.’
Chloe Finnie
(More pearls of wisdom
next month—Ed.)
Natural Touch
Beauty, Health and Complementary Therapy Salon
Susan and Jenny aim to promote wellbeing and offer a wide range
of Decléor skincare treatments including aromatherapy facials,
massage, reflexology, manicure, pedicure, wax, detox, self tan and
holiday treatment packages. Gift vouchers also available.
a or p o e s or a apo t e t.
pe esdays to Sat rdays a d ate o Wed esday a d
COMMUNITY
BUYOUT NEWS
Lochwinnoch Community Buyout
Group (LCBG) are progressing rap-
idly with the Struthers Project. An
independent surveyor appointed by
the Scottish Executive has now com-
pleted a valuation of the site and
feedback on this is currently
awaited.
The next big hurdle in the right to
buy process is the COMMUNITY
BALLOT. This will be held on 27th
and 28th July (to be confirmed).
LCBG must demonstrate community
support with at least 26% of the lo-
cal electorate voting in favour of the
buyout, although the decision will lie
with the Scottish Executive. Polling
cards will be posted to every house-
hold over the next fortnight.
A publicity event is being planned
for Saturday 14th July in the McKil-
lop Hall between 11am and 3pm, in
advance of the ballot. There will be
a range of activities for kids, live
music, some stalls and refreshments.
A good opportunity to learn more
about the project. Posters will be
going up shortly advertising this event.
e : 01505 842118
rsday e e s.
A funding application to the BIG
Lottery Fund is well advanced and
initial discussions with them have
proven positive. If successful, the
grant will cover 95% of the costs
leaving a realistic amount to be
raised by the group from alternative
sources.
The project is receiving some en-
couraging comments from a number
of agencies and organisations.
LCBG have also heard from a small
brewery company which has ex-
pressed interest in establishing a
microbrewery in part of the site.
Alan Morris, Social Economy
Executive of Renfrewshire Council,
says of LCBG and The Struthers
Project: “they have the right ideas
for the right place at an
opportunistic time".
There are many ways people can get
involved and we have an extremely
short period of time in which to do a
large amount of work. Weekly
meetings will be held on Monday
evenings at 7.45pm in the Bowling
Club on Calderhaugh Lane. Volun-
teers will be urgently needed for
leafleting for the ballot and to help
with publicity, e.g. putting up ban-
ners, posters, playing music at The
Cross, etc. If you can help, e-mail
info@lcbg.org or drop a note in to
Lesley Scot at 79 High Street.
For General Enquires, contact Peter
Livingstone Tel: 07968 745196 and
for Donations, contact LCBG, 16
Parkhill Drive, Lochwinnoch PA12
4EN or e-mail: info@lcbg.org
Remember, this is a one-off oppor-
tunity and without strong support
and involvement from the commu-
nity this project will not succeed.
Ward 8 - Johnstone
North, Kilbarchan
and Lochwinnoch
Since the last edition of Chatterbox,
life has been pretty hectic with at-
tending council meetings and con-
stituent meetings within Ward 8
such as Tenant and Residents, Com-
munity Councils and various groups
who are seeking support and help on
various issues. My first surgery
within the Ward proved to be very
busy indeed with a healthy stream of
people attending with a very diverse
set of problems and issues. I have
resolved some of these but a few
will take a bit more of my time to
satisfy.
I am delighted that I am now the
chairman of Clyde Muirshiel Park
Authority Joint Committee, an hon-
our without a doubt and a challenge
that I’m looking forward to.
I recently had the pleasure of attend-
ing Lochwinnoch Primary School’s
showcase of Work in Enterprise,
which was an absolutely fabulous
and very impressive display of enter-
prise projects that each of the indi-
vidual classes had done. Pupils from
each class explained what their par-
ticular project was and how they ran
their financial budgets and raised
money for various charities. Projects
included coins for Africa, collecting
unwanted mobile phones, Red Nose
Day, mini pots of care, water conser-
vation and healthy eating. Represen-
tatives of local businesses were also
in attendance and were asked to
pledge their support and join in a
partnership to support pupils in vari-
ous ways with future projects. I have
certainly pledged my support and
look forward to working with our
young people. If your business
would like to lend support, then con-
tact the school.
I will be holding my Surgery on the
third Saturday of each month at
11:30am in the McKillop Hall - the
next Surgery is 21st July. But there
is no need to wait for a Surgery. If
you require my help, you can contact
me on 01505 843507 and we can
agree a time when we can meet.
Councillor David Arthur
86 Main Street, Kilbirnie, KA25 7AA
HOW CLEAN
ARE YOUR CARPETS?
Support your local hardware store.
We stock hardware, electrical, plumbing,
paint sundries, gardening and fancy goods.
Competitive prices, free local deliveries, all major credit cards accepted.
OPEN - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9am-1pm and 2.15-5.15pm
SCHOOL’S OUT
FOR SUMMER
This month, we have more
news from Johnstone High
School. We are very pleased
to feature below, the achieve-
ments of a number of Loch-
winnoch pupils during the
Spring/Summer term.
Congratulations to the
Fourth Year Girls’ netball
team, who are Scottish
Champions 2007!
The team, who defeated Bishop-
briggs High School 54-15 on 26th
April, included Stephanie Don-
nachie, Caron Dunn, Hannah
Holmes (Captain), Lorna Lamont
and Kirsten Oliver - all from
Lochwinnoch. Also from the
village were Julie Brander and
Sarah Campbell, who formed
part of the squad in earlier
rounds.
Rewards for hard work
throughout the year go to the fol-
lowing Lochwinnoch pupils:-
Awards In S4
Megan Hair, 1st in English
Fraser Miller, 2nd in Craft and
Design
Andrew Holmes, 1st in
Geography, 1st in French, 1st in
Biology, 2nd in Physical Educa-
tion
Hannah Holmes, 1st in History
Sam Wilson, 2nd Int 2 Graphic
Communication
Awards in S5/6
Gary Arthur, Merit ‘H’ Grade in
Modern Studies and 1st in
Int 2 History
Tel/Fax: 01505 682125
CARPET CLEANING
MACHINE FOR HIRE
Awards in S5/6 (continued)
Rachel Holmes, 1st in ‘H’ Grade
Physical Education and 1st in
Mathematics
Chloe Patterson, 1st in ‘H’ Grade
Biology and 1st ‘H’ Grade History
William Holmes, 1st in Advanced
‘H’ Grade Mathematics, 1st in Ad-
vanced ‘H’ Grade Physics
Helen Mackay, 1st in Advanced ‘H’
Grade Geography
Antony Woodcock, 1st in ‘H’ Grade
Geography.
The Matt Carruth Trophy -
Top Sportsperson - was won by
Rachel Holmes.
In the April issue of Chatterbox,
it was reported that Rebecca
Colbron had to withdraw from the
netball team, in which she was to
represent Scotland in Malta.
Happily, Rebecca did represent
Scotland and captained the team.
PACE Theatre continues to en-
gage the talents of a number of
Johnstone High School pupils.
Among these is Megan Hair, who
was part of the PACE cast who
competed in the Verona Challenge
Drama Competition.
The Intermediate Mathemati-
cal Challenge is a national com-
petition with very high standards.
To achieve an award of any colour
implies strong mathematical abil-
ity. Lochwinnoch 3rd Year pupils
were among the award-winners:-
Gold went to Connor Grose and
Bronze awards to Mathew Shiels,
Marcus Guy, Gareth John,
Claire Hiddleston, Simonas Stilius
Caitlin Patterson, and
Leanne Prescott.
 TEENAGE CANCER TRUST
NEWS
Do you know why they call the 'Frozen North' the ’Frozen
North? It's because it's freezing up there! John Delaney
has written to say that he managed to complete the
'Midnight Sun Marathon' in his target time of less than 5
hours. (More details below).
The run took place on Saturday 16th June, near Tromso in
Norway’s Arctic Circle. John and his team took part to
raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity close to
the heart of John and his family – and indeed to many in
the village – and for the Beanfeast Childrens’ Charity,
which has links to the Amani School in Tanzania.
Also in June, the 2007 TCT Summer Evening Cruise set
sail from Greenock on Friday 22nd June. John writes about
both events below.
Midnight Sun Marathon
It never gets dark in Tromso in summer, but it rains all the
time! Our plane couldn't land in Tromso and so we were
diverted to some military airbase on the mainland. We
found a bus and eventually arrived just a few hours before
the race, with no time to catch up on any sleep. Conditions
were quite unpleasant (cold and wet) but we all managed to
complete the marathon.
The old man of the field Dr Roger Carter finished first in 4
hours 41 mins, closely followed by John Delaney in 4hrs
44 mins and shortly afterwards by David McCusker and
Ian Thomson in just over 5 hours. Scott Isaksen had injured
a foot before the trip but came along to carry the old men's
bags and ran in the 10k race.
Back in Oslo we had a couple of hours lying in the sun-
shine between flights, and enjoyed a box of cheeky wee
Norwegian Merlot before limping home tired but happy.
Many thanks to everyone who has sponsored us. There are
still some sponsorship forms to be collected, so the amount
raised for the 4 charities is not yet known. We solemnly
promise never, ever, ever to do this again.
TCT Summer Evening Cruise
Using his navigational skills, John Delaney cunningly plot-
ted a course for the cruise that managed to avoid the torren-
tial rainstorms that battered the rest of the West of Scotland
last Friday evening. The sun shone as promised for all but
the last few minutes of the cruise and a good time seemed
to be had by all on board.
Those up on deck enjoyed the sea air and lovely views to-
wards the Kyles of Bute, whilst those below deck danced
the night away thanks to the excellent music provided by
Tony Finn and his band.
Many thanks to everyone who came along and supported
the charity on the night by buying raffle tickets etc. Thanks
largely to the raffle and the £5 'Draw', the whole event
made a smashing profit of £1,711.50 for TCT. Special
thanks to Angela O'Neill and her team of little helpers for
organising the raffle and to Lynn and Jane for extorting £5
from every man, woman and child on board.
Here's to next year!
MOORPARK HOUSE
KILBIRNIE
Moorpark House has, over the past 4 years, undergone
a multi million pound refurbishment and conversion
transforming the property into a grand yet welcoming
country house hotel. It has an imposing entrance hall,
12 luxurious bedrooms, a main dining room with adja-
cent conservatory, two additional dining rooms, an ele-
gant drawing room with ceiling hand painted by Italian
craftsmen in the 1890’s and a relaxing bar created by
extensive use of mouldings reproduced from originals
in the house.
We are open to the general public for morning coffee,
lunch from noon, afternoon tea and dinner from 6 p.m.
and prints of our menus appear on our website.
Moorpark House caters for all types of events from
small intimate dinners to weddings and our conference
facilities comfortably host from 10 to 150 delegates.
MOORPARK HOUSE, SCHOOL ROAD, KIL-
BIRNIE, NORTH AYRSHIRE, KA25 7LD
FOR RESERVATIONS TELEPHONE 01505 683503
E-MAIL:reception@moorparkhouse.co.uk
John writes: “Many thanks to everyone who has
sponsored me already. I thought you might like to
know how our fundraising is going.
So far we have managed to raise a total £163,410.00
for Teenage Cancer Trust online and we have re-
ceived another £163,170 in cash donations. The Fro-
zen North Run has so far raised a further £820.00.
Thanks to everyone who has already sponsored us. If
you haven't done so yet, it only takes a minute to do-
nate by credit or debit card.
If you haven't had a chance to sponsor me yet, then
you still can. And/or if you know anyone else who
you think might be kind enough to sponsor me,
please take a moment to send them the link to the
online fundraising page. It only takes a minute to
donate by credit or debit card.
The webpage can be found at:
http://www.justgiving.com/johndelaneyTCT
All donations are secure and sent electronically to
Teenage Cancer Trust. If you are a UK taxpayer,
‘Justgiving’ will automatically reclaim 28% Gift Aid
on your behalf, so your donation is worth even more.
Please join me in supporting Teenage Cancer Trust
and a fabulous cause.’
Thanks and best wishes,
John D
 THANKS
Sincere thanks to all who con-
tributed, helped and bought at the
recent yard sale at Johnshill.
£750
was raised on the day.
The money was sent to a parish
church in Nigeria.
Results from
Lochwinnoch Open
Race
On Saturday 9th June, the 25th
running of the Lochwinnoch
Open Race took place. Once
again, locals were amongst the
medal winners. The race takes
place, by tradition, on the second
Saturday in June and is now a
part of the Scottish Athletics cal-
endar; the race is featured on
their website.
Race organiser, Captain Lawrie of
1st Lochwinnoch Boys Brigade
Company has very kindly pro-
vided the race results. Here are
the highlights, with several local
names featuring in the results list
Men’s Race over 6 miles -
First place went to Joe Kealey of
Ronhill Club, Cambuslang, win-
ning in a time of 33mins 44secs.
Second place was taken by
Michael Finlay of Kilbarchan in
36mins 46secs and Third Place
was taken by David White of Kil-
marnock, in 36 mins 55secs.
Second place was taken by Jude
Austin in 51mins 23 secs and joint ABC Therapies
Third Place winners Christine
Lochwinnoch
Donaldson and Gail Colbron, ran the
race in 58mins 13secs. Liz Tait Therapeutic Massage
gained Fifth place, with a very re- Indian Head Massage
spectable time of 60 mins 14 secs.
Boys Race over 4.1 Miles
Marc Austin, Garscube Club, won
First place, in 27 mins 39 secs.
Special gifts
Boys’ Brigade Race over 4.1 Miles Treatment Vouchers &
First place went to local, Greg Mil- Holistic Goody Bags
lar, who won the race in 31mins made to order
25secs. Second place went to local,
Rickie Hill, who completed the race
in 46mins 29 secs.
Girls Race over 4.1 Miles Counselling
Joint First place was won by local (Individuals & Couples)
girls Kirstie Porteous and Roseanna Counselling Supervision
Billany in a time of 37mins 53secs.
Local, Susan Porteous, took Third
place in a time of 41 mins.
Lap Jogger Race
Jane Watson completed this race in a
time of 45 mins 12 secs. Aileen Ferguson
MSc, FCIPD, MBACP, DTM.
Well done
01505-843714
to all who took part.
Guides to Romania THANK YOU
This letter comes from Chloe
Patterson, Stephanie Donnachie and Lochwinnoch Playgroup would like
Lorna Lamont: to thank the Gordon Fraser Charita-
ble Trust for the very generous dona-
tion of £500 we recently received.
‘Dear Chatterbox Editor,
This is a great boost to the group and
We are writing to thank the people of Loch- will be used to purchase play equip-
ment and craft materials for the
winnoch for their generous support of our
children.
fundraising efforts to enable us to attend and
help at a Romanian children’s summer camp.

Also of note, were local runners
Allan Penny (7th place), David
Nichols (8th), Andy Harrison
(10th), Gary Ward (11th), Alex
Ward (13th), John Keaney (15th),
John Delaney (16th), Cameron
Marsh (17th), David McCusker
(18th), Kevin Law (20th), Adrian
Wiszniewski (22nd) and Ronald
Brown (23rd).
Ladies’ Race over 6 miles -
First place went to Carol Martin
of Garscube Club, winning in a
time of 47 mins 34 secs.
We have been overwhelmed by everyone’s gen-
erosity and are extremely grateful, as we have
now reached our target of £1200.
We are putting the finishing touches to our
organisation for our trip in early July.
On our return we will be happy to share our
Romanian experiences with anyone who is
interested.
Thanks again to everyone. ‘
Appeal for information
In last month’s Chatterbox, we featured
an appeal for information on a former
Lochwinnoch resident. The appeal was
successful and Doug Clark in Canada
has written to say -
“Well, the world just got a tad smaller. I
heard from Sheila Wilson today. Please
accept and pass along my sincerest
thanks to everyone who helped, and a
special thanks to Sheila’s mum who
made this happen. Ah, Lochwinnoch,
the wee toon with a big heart.”
Doug Clark
 Litter Louts
Britain used to be a relatively clean
country. The ‘Keep Britain Tidy’ cam-
paign had an impact on the way past
generations behaved. They were proud
of their country and tried to keep it as
clean as they could. Now nobody seems
to care. Dropping rubbish in the street,
throwing rubbish from cars is all part of
the modern way of life.
The American best selling author, Bill
Bryson, recently wrote despairingly of
how this countryside is becoming one
big rubbish tip. Fly tipping is a major
problem with, it is estimated, a million
incidences every year in the UK.
Lochwinnoch, sad to say, is not exempt
from the problem. Anyone from abroad,
travelling to and from Ardrossan, must
get a poor impression of this country.
Drivers who use the road to Largs ap-
parently finish their hamburgers at
around the time they reach Lochwin-
noch and, instead of taking the burger
detritus home, they abandon reasonable
behaviour and toss it out of the car win-
dow. Take a look at the pavements, the
streets, the beauty spots, the river banks;
there is not a bit of the village that does
not have a deposit of litter. The street
sweeper’s job is similar to these guys
who paint the Forth Road Bridge. He
has an everlasting battle with litter drop-
pers. Perhaps indestructible cast iron
litter baskets on every lamp post in
Lochwinnoch would be a help.
There is a curious psychology surround-
ing the throwing away of litter. In Brit-
ain, it seems, it is almost acceptable. In
most other countries around Europe it is
considered bad form, while in Singapore
it is a serious crime that attracts rela-
tively severe punishment.
One villager has come up with a novel
way of keeping Lochwinnoch tidy – she
has adopted a street she keeps clean.
She writes -
“When I am out with my dog I now
take two bags. One for dog poo and
one to pick up ‘disgusting' litter.
I have decided to adopt Lochlip Road
as my wee patch to help keep clean.
Perhaps others in the village can do
the same? We can help beat the XXX
(naughty people – Ed.) who drop or
throw away litter! “
DON’T DROP IT
BAG IT AND BIN IT!
SAVING THE PARK
FROM
WIND TURBINES
A number of Ladymoor Wind
Factory Action Group members
were on duty outside the various
exhibitions held by Wind Hydro-
gen Limited in Kilbirnie, How-
wood, Dalry, Beith and Lochwin-
noch. WHL are proposing to
erect 24 x 125 metre turbines
straddling the Garnock river.
The purpose of the exercise was
to complete an exit poll to gauge
the opinions of the visitors who
attended the exhibitions. To our
dismay each exhibition had poor
attendance but our exit poll was
worthwhile because those who
did visit were significantly
against this proposal. Percent-
ages against the proposal varied
from 85 -92 which is good news
from our point of view.
A hardy group of LWFAG mem-
bers gave up their Sunday after-
noon to do a sponsored walk
from Kilbirnie to Lochwinnoch. A
considerable amount of money
was raised and a great deal of fun
was had, particularly when the
winners of our poster competi-
tion were allowed to bash down
our plaster turbine! On the walk,
the participants could see the
skyline which WHL proposes to
despoil with giant turbines and it
was so uplifting to hear our
younger walkers’ determination
that Clyde Muirshiel Park will not
be turned into a wind factory! It
is an inspiration for adult
LWFAG members to see so many
youngsters very determined to
save the Park for their children.
It has made the adults more de-
termined than ever to work hard
to Save Our Regional Park for the
sake of our youngsters. Isn’t that
what it is all about?
For more details on the
campaign to “Save Clyde
Muirshiel Regional Park”, visit
our website -
www.saveyourregionalpark.com
THANK YOU
The staff of Lochwinnoch Library
would like to thank everyone who
supported the fund-raising T-Party
for CHAS (Children’s Hospice As-
sociation Scotland) held on Thurs-
day 14th June.
Total raised - £168
Thank you.
HOW TO FIND THE
VISITOR CENTRES
RSPB
The reserve is open at all times and
the visitor centre is open daily from
10am to 5pm (except Xmas and New
Year holidays). Easily accessible by
train, bus and car, the RSPB centre
is located 18 miles SW of Glasgow,
beside A760 Largs Road (off A737
Irvine Road—easily accessible from
J 28A of the M8). Car parking facili-
ties available. Tel: 01505 842663
MUIRSHIEL PARK
VISITOR CENTRE
The Centre is 4 miles NW of Loch-
winnoch at the top of Calder Glen
Road. Open from 11oo-1600
hrs/1700hrs at weekends for Hen
Harrier CCTV viewing, walks/trails,
wildlife plus refreshments, snacks
and gifts. Pre-book a place on the
FREE bus from RSPB Centre to
Muirshiel on designated Saturdays
in July. Car parking also available at
Muirshiel. Tel: 01505 842803
CASTLE SEMPLE CENTRE
Located on the loch shore in Lochlip
Road, Lochwinnoch. Open from
1000-1700 hours every day. Wide
range of water sports, cycle hire,
footpaths, snacks and refreshments
available in the Centre. Car parking
at the Centre. Tel: 01505 842882.
CORNALEES VISITOR
CENTRE
The Visitor Centre is located at Loch
Thom, Nr Inverkip. Fabulous views,
wide open spaces, moorland walks,
including The Greenock Cut Walk.
Open from 1030-1600 hours week-
days/weekends. Car parking is
available at the Centre. Tel: 01475
521458 for further information.
 News & Events at Sun 1st to Tues 31st July
Birds on TV at Muirshiel
Sunday 22nd July - Pond
Dipping at Cornalees. Find out
RSPB, Muirshiel, Centre - live images of the Hen what animals and plant life are
lurking in the Cornalees pond.
Harriers, birds permitting! Also,
Cornalees & Castle guided walks in Hen Harrier For information and bookings,
Tel: 01475 521458.
country. Book now for FREE bus
Semple Centres lift from RSPB to Muirshiel on Tuesday 24th July -
(see previous page for Visitor Centre Saturdays 7th, 14th and 21st July. Butterfly Bonanza at Muirshiel.
location information/contact details) Tel: 01505 842803 Join the Rangers for a butterfly
5th July to 17th August - hunt. Tel: 01505 842803.
6th July to 10th August - Youth Sailing Club at Castle Semple
27th and 28th July - Annual
Summer Holiday Club at RSPB Centre. This RYA Dinghy sailing
Bat and Moth Night at RSPB
Lochwinnoch. Running every scheme is ideal for 8-16 year
Lochwinnoch. Join Butterfly
Friday for 6 weeks, from 11am- olds, with 2-day courses operat-
Conservation and the Clyde Bat
2pm for children aged 8+ years. ing on different weeks through-
Group for a joint Bat and Moth
Different activities every week, out this period. Bookings essen-
extravaganza, (7.30pm till late on
including Mini-beasts, Wildlife tial - Tel: 01505 842882. Fri 27th/10am-12noon on Sat 28th).
on the doorstep, Wildlife Kitchen, Tues 10th July - Flower Power Advance booking essential - Tel:
Environmental Games Day and at Muirshiel from 1300-14oohrs. 01505 842663.
much more. Booking essential. Discover the wild flowers of
For more information (and for
Tuesday 31st July -
Muirshiel and plant your own. Environmental Games at Muir-
other activities for under 8-year
Tues 17th July - Natural shiel Centre. A day of fun for the
old’s) Tel: 01505 842663.
Crafts at Muirshiel from 1300- whole family. Tel: 01505 842803
From Monday 2nd July to 1400hrs. Show your natural tal-
Friday 17th August - ents and join the Rangers to Looking ahead .....
Multi Activity Weeks at Castle make something out of natural
Semple Centre. Children aged 8+ resources.
Tues 7th to Sun 12th August
years can try 5 different outdoor Pond Week - an opportunity for
activities, spread over 5 half days 14th and 21st July - Moth young and old alike to find out
in a week. From 10:00-12.30 Mornings on Saturdays at RSPB what animals and plant life are
hours or 13:30-16:00 hours, de- Lochwinnoch, from 9am-1oam. lurking in the ponds of Clyde
pending on age. Early bookings Book now to find out all about Muirshiel Regional Park. Pond
essential - for more information, moths at Lochwinnoch. Life and Pond Dipping events at
Tel: 01505 842882 (Ext 20). Tel: 01505 842663. Muirshiel on 7th, 8th & 11th Au-
gust and on 12th August at Cor-
2nd July to 14th August Sat 21st/Sunday 22nd July nalees. For information Tel:
Kayak Rainbow Award - Two-day Sunset Survey for the Bat Con-
01505 842803 (Muirshiel) and
British Canoe Union skills courses servation Trust. Can you count
Tel: 01475 521458 (Cornalees).
for 8-15 year olds, running how many bats are in your gar-
throughout summer at Castle den for an hour at sunset? Drop
Semple Centre. Booking essen- into Castle Semple, before the That should keep the kids
tial - Tel: 01505 842882 (Ext 20) 21st/22nd July, to find out how busy !!
to help. Tel: 01505 842882.
3rd July to 14th August
Nature Notes at Muirshiel - pro-
grammes of nature-inspired
activities every week, led by the
Rangers. For bookings and start
times, Tel: 01505 842803.
4th July to 15th August For All Your Garage Door Needs
Wednesday Wildlife Watch - for Garage Doors . Remote Control Openers
all the family at Muirshiel Centre. Installation . Repairs . Spares
For bookings and to check start
times, Tel: 01505 842803. FREE ESTIMATES 0141 950 1423 GLASGOW
FREE SURVEYS 01505 842176 AYRSHIRE
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of Lochwinnoch through financial assistance by
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The Cross, Lochwinnoch PA12 4DB
over them. All views are of individuals. The editor
accepts no liability for errors
(10 mins from Glasgow Airport on A737)