The Wee County News

Friday 16.12.11 Issue 854

In this issue... Mountain rescue team to receive bigger budgetPage 5

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Alloa & Hillfoots

Rockathon hits Alloa this SundayPage 7

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Clackmannanshire councillors have demanded more transparency after being

kept in the dark for months about damaging concerns about social work services by a Sheriff.

Social work officials had been made aware that a local Sheriff had written a note containing concerns that the service was not up to scratch in June.

However, it was not until Councillor Mark English and Gary Womersley brought the note to the attention of new Chief Executive Elaine McPherson in November that the general body of elected members were told of the note.

During a special meeting of the council held on Wednesday, December 14 councillors noted a report which advised councillors of issues of procedure and practice relating to accommodated children and what action management would be taking to remedy this.

Councillors were also told there would be an independent review ordered by the Chief Executive.

During the meeting councillors had the opportunity to question Deirdrie Cilliers, Chief Social Work officer about a Sheriff’s note which branded the service as “self-serving and dishonest” amongst other serious concerns which sparked the production of the report and action plan.

Councillor Craig Holden asked Ms Cilliers what she believed was meant by “self-serving dishonesty” to which she replied it was

“indicating case reporting” and elaborated some social workers had been stating reports had been written straight after an interview when it had in fact been written before the court date it was needed for.

In the report presented on Wednesday one of the points on the action plan state that some social workers will be given more training on report writing to ensure it is done correctly in future.

Councillors were also angry they had been kept in the dark regarding the existence of the Sheriff’s note until it was brought to the attention of the new Chief Executive.

Council leader Rev. Sam Ovens expressed his disappointment that councillors had not been made aware of the note earlier and promised there would be more scrutiny in the future.

Councillor Donald Balsillie thanked Cllrs English and Womersley for highlighting the Sheriff’s concerns as he believed “without this we would not be discussing this today.” Other councillors at the meeting echoed this sentiment.

Councillor George Matchett spoke of secrecy within the council which prevented elected members from finding out about potentially damaging information such as this. He, alongside other councillors, welcomed the paper which should help ensure the most vulnerable people in society are cared for effectively.

Councillor Womersley ended the meeting by stating the welfare of children was always his first priority in bringing the issue to the public domain.

Councillors fury over lack of transparency

Alloa & District Round Table organised a Christmas Party extravaganza for Clackmannanshire pensioners at Alloa town hall - picture special see pages 16 & 17

weecountyFriday 16.12.11 2

ContactsNEW ADDRESS:38 Primrose Street,AlloaFK10 1JG

Advertising & Bookings01259 [email protected]

Editorial & Production01259 [email protected]

In your weecounty

this weekFamily Announcements P2

District News P14What’s on in your Wee County

Entertainment P18Puzzles with crossword compeition, pet of the fortnight and those dodgy parking pics!

Lifestyle P19Lip Gloss

Recruitment P20-21

Christmas Lifestyle P22The Meaning of the 12 Days of Christmas

Services P23Looking for a plumber, builder, roofer in your area, check out what the weecounty

services has to offer

Motoring P24 - 25Fixing your beloved car, or flogging your old run around, have a read at the weecounty

motoring for some tips and hints

weecounty Sport P27 - 32

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Give someone the gift of FlowersThe weecounty news has teamed up

with Flowers by Arrangement to bring you a competition to give someone special a beautiful bunch of flowers every month.

We are excepting nominations from readers who think someone deserves a little treat. It could be that they’ve overcome illness, are having a special birthday or are just a special person that deserves some recognition.

Whatever the reason, let us know and we’ll pick one winner who will receive some flowers.Send your nominations, plus your name, address and telephone number to:weecounty Flower Competition, The Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa FK10 1JG.Email: [email protected] Facebook: post your nominations on the Wee County News facebook page.

Nominations for this month will close on December 23rd and a winner will be announced on December 30th. The editors decision is final.

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From all at the weecounty and the

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BIRTHDAYS

Happy Birthday

Q!

Dear weecounty,What is happening with the weather?

Just when we thought we had passed the snow successfully we were hit with gale force winds!

What terrible winter weather, I can’t wait until it stops and Spring returns. I’m glad everyone stayed safe last week though and I hope this continues if it happens again.

Marjorie Hayes

Dear weecounty,I have become so disillusioned with

Christmas this year. Everyone is rushing out and buying such expensive gifts when we should all be saving.

For this reason I am cutting down this year, opting to make gifts rather than spend myself into debt trying to buy expensive gifts.

I have made a lovely chutney which I have decorated with brown paper and I plan to give it to all of my friends alongside some other homemade delicacies.

I hope people like them and it maybe makes them think about how much money they are spending, when really it is the thought that counts.

Mavis McGregor, Alva

Do you have a complaint against this newspaper?If you have a complaint about any item in this newspaper which concerns inaccuracy, harassment, intrusion or discrimination, write to our editor about it.

If you remain dissatisfied please contact the Press Complaints Commission - an independent organisation established to uphold an editorial Code of Practise for the Press. This nespaper will abide by their decision.

Press Complaints Commission1 Salisbury SquareLondon EC4Y 8AE

Tel: 0171 353 1248Fax: 0171 353 8355

Family AnnouncementsANNOUNCEMENTS

RAMSAYSadie and family would

like to express their sincere thanks to all relatives and friends for their support

and kindness during their recent bereavement.

Special thanks to the staff at Forth Valley Hospital, to Rev Donnie Thomson for this lovely service and also to all the staff at Hillview Funeral Service for their

care and compassion.

£300 was raised for Strathcarron Hospice.

TAYLORSuddenly but peacefully

at Forth Valley Royal Hospital on Wednesday

14th December 2011 Danny aged 75 years beloved

husband of Betty, dearly loved dad and papa to all

his family. Funeral will take place at Dunmar House

Hotel Alloa on Wednesday 21st December at 11am thereafter to Sunnyside Cemetery to which all family and friends are respectfully invited.

Family flowers only please. Hillview Funeralcare on

01259 725999

Dear weecounty,I have to say I really enjoyed your picture spread on the

Continental Market. I very much enjoyed visiting it and loved to look at the pictures.

I think it’s such a positive event to bring to the local area and I really hope it continues.

I hope next year more and more vendors decide to sell their foods at the market and it gets bigger and bigger.

Anna Jack, Alloa

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 3

News Brief

By Alison Mann

Wee County Walkers are taking a break from their weekly treks for the festive season. The last trek will take place this weekend, Saturday 17th December and are expected to resume on or around Monday 9th January 2012. Contact Jane McArdle on 07825052677 for further information on Wee County Walkers and their treks. The group would also like to wish everyone a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.

Wee County Walkers to take a well earned festive rest

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Hogmany tickets now on sale at the Eagle. Tickets cost £10 which includes a snack and drink licensed to 3am with a Hogmany Disco

An Alloa family are asking local people to help get

their kitten Alvin home for Christmas.

Little Alvin, just six months old, managed to sneak out of the Roach family’s Earl’s Court home on Friday, December 9 around 9pm and has not found his way back.

The grey and brown tabby was given as an early birthday present to two-year-old Darcy who would love him to come home. Her brother, Noah, four is also missing Alvin and would love to have him back for Christmas.

Neighbours have told mum Gillian they saw little Alvin trying to get into another house and Gillian hopes if someone is looking after him they will contact her to bring him home.

She has posted over 200 flyers through doors in her area, put up posters, contacted Cat’s Protection and make shops and ice cream vans aware that Alvin is missing.

Because of Alvin’s age he does not wear a collar and is of a very friendly nature. Gillian hopes if someone sees him out or if someone has mistakenly taken Alvin in they will get in touch.

Gillian said: “We’ve got two

Help find Alvin...other cats and they’ve never ran off, Alvin just sneaked past me out the door.

“He doesn’t get out much so we’re wondering if he’s got lost or has went into someone else’s house to keep warm.

“He’s very much loved, we’re all missing him and would like him back for

Christmas Day.“If you see him or

he’s in your house, please get in touch.”

If you have any information regarding Alvin please contact Gillian on 07851459171.

A Labour councillor who has been a member

of the party for over 30 years will now serve independently after being rejected as a candidate for the forthcoming election.

Eddie Carrick resigned from the Labour party on Monday, meaning he will now serve his Clackmannanshire West ward as an independent councillor.

Mr Carrick has served as a councillor in the area for ten years, alongside George Matchett, and put himself forward to be re-elected to stand in the May 2012 elections.

However, the councillor was shocked to find his seat was being contested 24 hours before a vote at the local branch to decide who would stand for election.

He and Mr Matchett put themselves forward and Jim Stalker also showed interest in acting as councillor for the ward.

After the vote, it is understood Mr Carrick lost

out to Mr Matchett by one vote after receiving one vote, while Mr Stalker received four votes.

Mr Carrick is now contemplating whether to stand as an independent councillor to allow local people to decide who should represent them.

He said: “George Matchett and I put ourselves forward for the next election and thought we were doing a good job.

“We weren’t expecting to be challenged. Why challenge us when we are doing a good job?

“I was disappointed Jim Stalker was standing in an area where he knew there were two sitting councillors.

“I’m disappointed in Jim and the party for allowing this to happen. If the people of my constituency put me out then that’s fine.

“For these reasons I have resigned from the Labour Party and the Labour group.”

Mr Carrick is currently the sustainability portfolio holder and has been asked by the Labour party to continue

working in this role.He added: “My portfolio is

huge, it’s a lot of work and I must be doing a good job if Labour want me to continue holding the post.”

Jim Stalker has paid tribute to Mr Carrick and said: “It is correct that I have been selected as one of the Labour Party candidates to contest the Tullibody and Menstrie Ward in the Local Government Elections in May 2012. The selection of candidates was a democratic process organised according to Labour Party rules and I am delighted that I have been chosen to go forward with the trust and support of party members.

“No individual has the right to participate in the selection process without challenge, and the Labour Party in Scotland is keen to attract new candidates with new ideas.

“I was born and brought up in Clackmannanshire and continue to be involved with many local groups and community projects. It would be a great honour

to serve the people of Clackmannanshire, in particular the residents of Tullibody and Menstrie.”

Mr Carrick added that his work as a councillor for the people of Tullibody and Menstrie would not change. He has been instrumental in improving Clackmannanshire for local people such as installing roundabout

art and naming the Clackmannanshire Bridge.

He said: “For the people of Tullibody and Menstrie as far as I’m concerned nothing will change. I’ll still carry on representing the people to the best of my ability.”

Councillor leaves labour party after being rejected to stand

weecounty4 Friday 16.12.11

Robyn Tasker getting into the Santa spirit

Activ8 Christmas FairSauchie residents were

treated to a bit of festive fun at the weekend as Activ8 held their annual Christmas fair.

The group hold the fair every year but this year brought something extra special to Sauchie – an ice rink, where both adults and children enjoyed skating on the synthetic rink.

The Christmas Fair held on

Saturday, December 10 included a bouncy castle, bucking bronco and vast array of stalls for locals to enjoy.

Sandra Gruar, of Activ8 said: “It went really well, the ice rink on Friday night and the Christmas fair on Saturday. “It was just something a little different for the people of Sauchie, a lot of people turned up.”

Tiger face - Aiden age 6

Sandra Gruar and the Rudolph ride


By Alison Mann

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Ochils Mountain Rescue Centre welcomed

the Justice Secretary to their base to celebrate an increased government budget to rescue teams.

Kenny MacAskill visited the Fishcross base to announce the Scottish Government is increasing its annual grant funding to the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland (MRCofS).

An extra £12,000 will be added to the existing £300,000 budget, which will be distributed to the 27 Mountain Rescue Teams, including Ochils.

Scottish Mountain Rescue Teams assist the police with land-based search and rescue and its volunteers provide a vital public service to those who use Scotland’s hills and mountains, saving hundreds of lives every year.

As well as making £312,000 available to help fund the work of Scottish Mountain Rescue during 2011-2012, the Scottish Government has also agreed to provide a one off grant of a further £12,000 towards communications equipment and will continue to provide £15,000 partnership funding towards a Project Manager post this year. Overall funding from the Scottish Government to the MRCofS in 2011/12

Mountain rescue team delighted at increased budget

Clackmannanshire festive party goers

have been warned to ensure they do not fall victim to unlicensed taxi and private hire vehicles.

The Council’s Licensing Team is raising awareness of this particular issue in order to protect the public, as well as safeguarding the interests of legitimate members of the taxi and private hire trade.

All official taxis and private hire drivers are subject to thorough background checks as part of the licensing process and vehicles are tested

to ensure that they are safe and fit to transport members of the public.

Councillor John Biggam, Convenor of the Council’s Regulatory Committee, said: “This is the season to be jolly, but it is also a time of year when we need to keep our wits about us. As well as reinforcing the don’t drink and drive message, we are also keen to ensure that people only use licensed taxis and private hire vehicles to get to and from festive events.

“Just as you would think twice about getting into a stranger’s car, we would urge you always to book your taxi or private hire

car through a known and reputable company, rather than use an unlicensed service. Also book it in advance or keep a list of telephone numbers of reputable firms in your mobile phone.”

Passengers are also reminded that over Christmas and New Year taxi fares operate at a slightly higher rate, normally between 24-27 December and from 31 December to 3 January. Customers should check the price of a journey with operators at the time of booking.

The Licensing Team would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

Beware of unlicensed taxi’sBy Alison Mann

will therefore total £339,000.Speaking during a visit

to Ochils Mountain Rescue Centre, Mr MacAskill said: “Mountain Rescue Team volunteers went out over 500 times last year to seek and rescue those in need of assistance - frequently in difficult mountainous terrain, poor weather conditions and often at night. I sincerely thank everyone associated

with our Mountain Rescue Teams for providing an outstanding emergency service to the communities in our mountains, hills and rural areas.

“Scottish Mountain Rescue Teams represent the best traditions of community service and this extra funding will allow them to continue to deliver a first-class, front-line, voluntary service, free at the

point of delivery, in the face of increasing demand and often in extremely challenging conditions.”

Jonathan Hart, Chair of the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland, said: “Scottish Mountain Rescue are very grateful for the Scottish Government’s continued financial support, announced

today, which together with the additional funding for communication equipment and a Project Manager post, will considerably enhance our voluntary mountain rescue service provided to those who may be in need of assistance.

“Scottish Mountain Rescue are proud to provide a world-class voluntary search and rescue service 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. The significant number of over 26,000 deployment hours in 2010 represents a huge commitment from our dedicated volunteers.

“I am deeply grateful to all of our emergency response partners throughout Scotland and to all Scottish Mountain Rescue Teams that continue to provide a vital voluntary public service to assist the police with land-based search and rescue.”

Deputy Chief Constable

Andy Cowie of Northern Constabulary, who is ACPOS’ Mountain Rescue lead, said: “On behalf of all of the Chief Police Officers in Scotland, we are delighted at the continued funding provided by the Scottish Government, which enables Scottish Mountain Rescue Teams to provide a world class service. There is no doubt that without the bravery and commitment of these volunteers, the police in Scotland would find it very difficult, if not impossible, to fill the gap that would be created.

“We enjoy a very strong working relationship with individual teams across Scotland and the MRCofS, and hope with this continued Government funding that this partnership will be as productive and rewarding for our communities, for many years to come.”“this extra funding will allow them to continue to deliver

a first-class, front-line, voluntrary service”


Christmas Messages ...Acting Chief ConstableDerek PenmanCentral Scotland Police

Over the past year officers and staff from Central Scotland Police have worked hard in your communities

to keep you safe and address your concerns.And during the festive season we will continue to work hard

and help make Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling a safe place for you, your family and friends to enjoy the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Officers will be out in strength ensuring that criminals are deterred from committing any crimes and that anti-social behaviour and disorder are not given a chance to escalate. We want you to be safe and while we will do our part we also need you to do yours. Do not allow yourself to become vulnerable especially through excess alcohol – make sure you know how you are getting home, don’t try to drive after drinking alcohol and make sure that somebody knows where you are. Also, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security the morning after a night out. Don’t assume you will be safe to drive. You could be over the legal drink drive limit and be putting yourself and other road users at risk.

The past 12 months have been exceptionally busy and challenging. And as we move into 2012 our focus will remain on delivering excellent local policing. Our priorities will remain as policing our communities, protecting the most vulnerable and building trust, confidence and satisfaction in Central Scotland Police and those who serve and work in it.

The force was recently recognised for the outstanding work it does in the Scottish Policing Awards. These awards should give the public confidence in their officers and the confidence to come forward with information and work with us to keep the Forth Valley safe and vibrant.

Excellent work is being done daily by police and staff. And that will continue as we prepare to become part of the national police force. Community policing will continue to be at the forefront and communities across the Forth Valley should enter the new year in the knowledge all our officers and staff are intent on making sure the public is safe.

I would like to wish everyone a safe and peaceful festive period.

Provost Derek StewartClackmannanshire Council

Without doubt, 2011 has been a good year for Clackmannanshire. Businesses, community groups

and individual members of the community have seen some tremendous successes and achievements.

We have welcomed an array of distinguished visitors, including Royalty, when HRH Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex came to Diageo at the end of November, and we have seen the Rt Hon George Reid installed as the new Lord Lieutenant.

The Council has helped and joined in with numerous celebrations, including Armed Forces Day and the Homecoming Parade for the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders in June and the Chinese New Year of the Rabbit back in February.

In the sporting arena, as well as individual and team success, without doubt one of the biggest headliners was Alloa’s selection to be on the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Route and we all look forward to what will be a historic day on 13 June next year.

One event that I have particular affection for is the Citizen of the Year Award, recognising the commitment and dedication that local people and groups make to help improve the quality of life in Clackmannanshire. February saw the eighth

consecutive staging of this event.It has also been my great pleasure,

along with the Deputy and Lord Lieutenant, to attend 100th birthday celebrations and a 105th birthday which coincided with the Royal Wedding on 29 April, along with 60th, 65th and 70th wedding anniversaries throughout the year, marking these tremendous personal landmarks.

It goes without saying that, on behalf of Clackmannanshire Council, I wish residents, businesses, community groups and all those associated with our marvellous wee county a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Gordon Banks MP Ochil & South Perthshire

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Wee County News as they issue their first Christmas

edition of the paper, and wish them every success for the future. I would also like to thank them for allowing me the opportunity to send you this Christmas message.

My thanks go also to the constituents of Clackmannanshire for allowing me to represent them at Westminster – which is of course, a privilege and something that I find extremely satisfying and rewarding. I really enjoy my work, but when I achieve a good result for a constituent who has been having problems with one issue or another – that is when I feel that I am doing the job I set out to do as an MP.

Looking back, I remember saying that 2010 that had been a tumultuous year, but as we reach the end of 2011, if anything this year has been even more so. I wish I could say that the UK had moved on from the economic downturn, but in truth our situation is frightening and there are no signs that things are going to change anytime soon as the Eurozone crisis dominates our headlines and leaves us wondering what the effect will be on our economy. However, this discussion is best left for another time.

Christmas is traditionally a time when we like to celebrate with our families, however, it can be a difficult time for others like the frail and/or elderly and those who live on their own. Please spare a little time to give them a quick phone call – just to let them know someone is thinking of them. The best present for many, I’m sure, would be a neighbour or friend popping in to say a quick hello or Merry Christmas.

Also, in my thoughts and in the thoughts of many, many others, I’m sure, are those serving in the armed forces who are spending the festive season far away from their loved ones. I would like to send them and their families my very best wishes and thanks for the sacrifices they make to keep us all safe.

Finally, a special mention for the emergency services and NHS staff who work even harder during this busy period to ensure that our hospitals and public services are operational and there for us when required.

Remember, if there are any issues you would like to discuss my contact details are; The Constituency Office, 49-51 High Street, Alloa FK10 1JF. Tel; 01259 721536 or email [email protected]

Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2012.

Keith Brown MSP Clackmannanshire and Dunblane

With Christmas now just around the corner, I would like to thank the Wee County News for offering

me this opportunity to send my constituents across

Clackmannanshire a message.This time of year gives us

the chance to reflect upon the previous twelve months, to remember the good times and the bad and to think about how we can make next year better. 2011 has brought many challenges for households throughout Clackmannashire and I hope that you get a chance to relax and celebrate over the festive period.

At this time of year my thoughts are with those whose loved ones cannot be with them - in particular those who are ill or infirm. I would like to include in this, the men and women of our Armed Forces who are posted away from home. It is difficult to be away from the people you care about at this time and my best wishes are with them and their families during this holiday season.

It has been a busy year in my constituency office, with a great deal of you coming in to see me with a wide variety of concerns and issues. As always, please don’t hesitate to get in touch if I can be of any help. It is a privilege to serve as your MSP and I look forward to continuing my work in the New Year.

Whatever you have planned for the holidays, I hope all of you enjoy spending time with family and friends and that your festive celebrations are happy and relaxing. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Dr. Richard Simpson MSPMid Scotland and Fife

It’s been good to see the Wee County News back in our shops in Clackmannanshire again these past months

and it’s a real pleasure to be able to send this Christmas message to readers. Congratulations to staff at the paper once again and well done.

The year 2011 will not go down in many of our diaries as a great year. To try and see the glass half full, the UK is not as badly off as many of our EU partners; unemployment in Ireland is over 14% and in Spain 23%. But this is little comfort to our young graduates. I just hope next year will be better for all of those affected, wherever they are.

At Christmas our thoughts and thanks turn to those whose efforts sustain our communities now and throughout the year. Police, firefighters, ambulance workers, nurses and other health professionals, care workers and all in our public sector. This is a time for unity. We need a vibrant private sector but we also need a strong public sector.

When I think of the cuts in benefits combined with the price that many who are not very well off are paying for the greed and incompetence of our investment bankers, I feel angry. When I see the increases that the directors of the top one hundred companies paid themselves this year, I feel even more angry.

But I hope like me, you will draw some strength from recognising the largely unrewarded efforts of our unpaid carers and the many people who give their time to support those who need help. We owe them all a debt - which this year is even more than usual.

As we approach Christmas, I’d like to send a message of thanks and my good wishes to service men and women who are stationed at different corners of the world and the same to their families who are separated from them. We are very thankful for the sacrifices they make for us, not only at this time but all the year round.

On closing I’d like to wish the constituents of Clackmannanshire a very happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.


Send in your completed crosswords alongside your name, address and telephone number to be in with a chance of winning this week’s meal for two.SEE PAGE 18

Congratulations to Stephanie Mapplebeck from Clackmannan who won a meal for two at the Bridge Inn in our crossword competition last week.

CROSSWORD COMPETITION WINNERLAST WEEKS CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Members of Menstrie Community Council cleaned up woodlands owned by the

community.The clean up was part of CSV Action Week.

Les Sharp, Chair of the Community Council said: “As we were clearing away the rubbish we had collected and putting it safe for the Council to uplift I had Aiden Halley sit on the wall above the pile of rubbish for a photo, mainly for the papers to let people see what we had achieved, but also to go to CSV as part of our report.”

The picture was selected as runner up in the Action week’s reports and the competition was sponsored by Devine Chocolate and the group won 25 bars of milk chocolate.

Aiden decided to share his part of the prize with his classmates at Menstrie Primary as they had contributed to the clean-ups success.

Alloa residents will be getting their Rock and Roll Shoes on

as the Rockathon hits every pub in the town.

Co-owner of Loop Music Studio, Stephen Dewar, 23 has been working with members of local Rockabilly band Hot Rock ‘n’ Boogie to give Alloa’s music scene a much needed boost.

The Rockathon will take place on Sunday, December 18 and will see the band play in 9 venues in one day, ending in the Old Brewery at 11pm.

The Rockathon will be no mean feat for the band as they will have to run to each new venue carrying their instruments – including a double bass and PA system.

The free event is the first of its kind and has been designed to inspire bands to bring live music to Alloa while giving local pubs a boost in customers.

Stephen said: “Hot Rock ‘n’ Boogie have played all over the country and were a bit miffed that there’s not a great local scene.

“We decided the band should play every pub in Alloa in one day. Since we began organising it three pubs and a music store have closed down so it shows how much we need live music to come to the area so people start visiting the pubs more.

“We’ve been handing out flyers to advertise the event and everyone seems to be excited about the idea. Even if they just come to one venue then hopefully that’s a pub they’ve never been to and they’ll go again.

“I’ve lived in Alloa all my life and I’d never been to the pubs. I never knew Crams had a built in PA system to use and for me, as the co-owner of a music studio, not to know that is ridiculous. How many other people don’t know about these things?

“Hopefully people will turn up and become interested in getting bands playing in Alloa and supporting local pubs at the same time.”

Through his work at Loop Music Studios Stephen comes into contact with many bands from the area

Drink driving clampdownFive people have been

caught drink driving in Clackmannanshire in just one week after police launched a drink drive campaign.

During the first week of the annual ACPOS Festive Drink Drug Drive Campaign, police officers have detected five offenders in the area who have been driving while over the legal alcohol limit.

The vehicle forfeiture scheme was also extended to coincide with the launch of this campaign and during the first week it has been requested that consideration be given to seizing offenders vehicles during this period.

Chief Superintendent Kate Thomson who is the ACPOS lead on Drink Driving said: “As most of Scotland was gripped by severe weather which made driving conditions hazardous for everyone, it is astonishing that anyone would consider driving whilst impaired by alcohol or drugs.

“The message needs to get out to those offenders who chose to take the risk and drink and drive, that it is illegal, dangerous and at times a fatal decision. We have extended the vehicle forfeiture scheme this year to target those who provide a high reading and as the statistics

show a considerable number of offenders will, on conviction, face the added consequence of losing their vehicle for good.

“It is encouraging that with the support of the public and all law enforcement partners we have removed over a hundred drivers from our roads for the next twelve months, however we must continue to educate all drivers that it is not worth the risk and when they are faced with the decision on whether to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs, they will decide to leave the vehicle and seek other forms of transport.

“I would encourage anyone who suspects that a person is driving or attempting to drive whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs to contact the police. They can either call the police direct via their local office or by dialling 999 or through the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111 where the information will be treated in confidence of anonymity.”

Menstrie clean up

and knows there could be a great live music scene if people knew the facilities existed.

To find out more, and to view the schedule for the day visit the Facebook event page ‘Alloa Rockathon 2011’.

Music feast this Sunday in Alloa

Les with Aiden and pals with their chocolate bars.

weecountyFriday 16.12.118

Alison MannMy pressure test; making Christmas dinner

HAVE YOUR SAYDo you have something you want to say, or something for Alison to talk about: [email protected] are now in Alloa. Come and visit us at 38 Primrose Street

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The Wee County’s MP has been out visiting

local posties as they sort thousands of pieces of Christmas mail.

Gordon Banks, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire paid an early morning Christmas catch-up visit to the Royal Mail’s Sorting Office in Alloa recently. Gordon is a regular visitor and is well aware of the pressures for staff at this time of year.

Christmas brings many hundreds of thousands extra items of mail to be sorted and delivered through this office each year.

Gordon Banks MP said: “The Christmas rush is a hectic time for staff at sorting offices and Alloa is no different. It’s good to see how they handle the onslaught of mail and parcels, and their dedication is admirable. The staff are focused on ensuring that everyone receives their mail on time.

“It was interesting to hear how the profile of delivery items is changing with a growth in packets, largely driven by internet shopping

and this in itself poses new challenges for Royal Mail.

“A year ago the Government were pushing the Postal Services Bill through Committee in the House of Commons so it was interesting to speak to staff about their concerns of a sale to the private sector and the implications that this could

have on stamp prices and the universal service obligation.

And we should remember that our postmen and women deliver the mail in all weathers. Their job is particularly difficult at this time of year as the snow starts to fall - they deserve all our thanks.”

MP visits Royal Mail office

You’ve probably noticed, but it’s almost

Christmas. I love this time of year and have got my Christmas tree twinking in the corner and have presents wrapped and ready.

However, by far my favourite part of Christmas has to be Christmas dinner. Seeing the family, feasting on two different kinds of soup, turkey and all the trimmings, calorie laden desserts and don’t forget the veggie option for dad and the sister.

According to britishturkey.co.uk, in Christmas of 2008 the UK ate 10 million turkeys, 25 million Christmas Puds, 250 million pints of beer and 35 million bottles of wine.

That’s a big hangover and a lot of cooking. Now, normally my mum slaves over a hot stove, cooking my family a tasty dinner but this year it’s all changing.

In my wise ways, I offered to take it off her hands this year, let her put her feet up and possibly contract food poisoning (here’s hoping not).

I’m not so frightened of the turkey, it can just cook away in the oven. The problem is the veggies – there have been many disasters. From the pie where all the mushrooms fell to the bottom into a smooshy mess to the one that just fell over, they’ve not had a good time on Christmas day.

So I’m looking for some

inspiration, a tried and tested veggie option (a proper one, no fish or wafer thin ham please) that will impress on Christmas day.

I have already got my dessert sorted, a scone fruit pie and macaroons – one has to work! Might have a frozen pavlova in the freezer as back-up though as watching too much Master Chef will probably have me balancing macaroons on cling film over a jar and dotting it with some sort of cream before frosting it, which I’m sure will all end in tears.

So I need the good people of Clackmannanshire to furnish me with their favourite Chrimbo recipes for me to try out and impress my family during my first ever Christmas cook off.

Anything will do, but a veggie option would be most appreciated. Or let me know what you’re planning

to give me some inspiration. Alternatively, if you have any spare or surplus food that I could pass off as my own – that may also work!

Send any recipes or ideas to me at [email protected] .

Santa was able to broadcast his festive message across the whole of the Wee County and most of Central Scotland at the weekend, as Steve Courtney from Central FM

popped in to have a word with him. He reminded the Wee County children that they have to be nice all year round, otherwise they may not get a visit from him.

Gordon at the Alloa sorting office


Festive Fun in ClackmannanClackmannan Church was

drenched in Christmas cheer at their annual Christmas festival.

Local groups, businesses, charities and families put on 37 beautiful displays that managed to capture and show the wonderful magic of Christmas.

The event, which is now in its sixth year, included displays from the Boy’s Brigade, the Community Council, Clackmannan Primary school and Samantha Blues Hairdressing.

With fierce competition this

year, the judges finally settled on the coffee morning ladies display as the winner of the festival with their knitted cake creations.

The church choir and praise band also performed during the event and attendees took part in the traditional festive carol singing.

Rev. Scott Raby said: “It went very well, although the weather was a wee bit of a problem. We did have a lot of good interest from local people. A great amount of community spirit was build up through it.”

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weecountyCHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR ARRANGEMENTS

Editorial/Advertising Copy Deadlines

For Friday 30.12.11 - Wednesday 28.12.11 (4pm)For Friday 6.1.12 - Wednesday 4.1.12 (4pm)

Editorial to [email protected] to [email protected]

Telephone: 01259 404 006

Scott, Vicki and all the staff wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2012

news

Box lady: Mary Jack

Stephen Raby and Calum Wyllie


SHOP LOCAL IN ALLOA THIS

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

Santa’s Grotto

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

Date: 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd & 24th Dec 2011

Location: Gordon McFarlane Jewellers, 41 Mill Street, Alloa. FK10 1DW

Time: 12 noon – 4 pm

Charge: £5.00 Includes photo with santa and a gift

Reindeer & Sleigh

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

Date: 17th Dec 2011

Location: High Street, Alloa

Time: 10 am reindeer arriving, procession starts at 12 noon

Homes across Alloa will benefit from super-fast

broadband as part of BT’s £2.5billion development of its optical fibre broadband.

Alloa is the first part of Clackmannanshire to be included in the latest part of the company’s upgrade scheme which are due to be completed during 2012.

BT’s local network business, Openreach is driving forward plans to make super-fast fibre broadband available to two-thirds of UK homes and businesses by the end of 2014.

The innovative network features a mix of fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) and fibre to the premises (FTTP) technologies. Speeds are vastly superior to those previously available to many UK homes and businesses.

FTTC, delivered to street cabinets, currently offers download speeds of up to 40Mbps with 10Mbps upstream.

Openreach has said it will roughly double these speeds next year.

FTTP, where the fibre goes directly to homes and

Alloa to get superfast broadbandbusinesses, offers speeds of up to 100Mbps, rising to 300Mbps in the spring. This compares with 6.8Mbps, the average actual speed of all UK broadband according to Ofcom’s latest research published in July 2011.

Brendan Dick, director of BT Scotland, said: “This is the biggest fibre broadband announcement we’ve made to date in Scotland, almost doubling the number of exchange areas being upgraded, and our first fibre deployment in Clacks.

“It marks a major investment in infrastructure which will give the country a tremendous boost. Next generation broadband is essential for our nation’s economic growth so it’s brilliant to be ending 2011 on such a high note.

“Super-fast broadband will be welcomed by families in Alloa because it will help improve their quality of life and leisure and open new doors through online learning and fast access to information and services.”

Councillor Rev. Sam Ovens, Leader of Clackmannanshire

broadband and it will be an excellent boost to firms of all sizes in this area, making Clackmannanshire an even more attractive location for business than it already is.”

Internet users with a fibre broadband connection can do much more online, all at the same time. A family can download a movie, watch a TV replay service, surf the net and play games online simultaneously.

The latest chart hit can be downloaded in around two seconds, a CD in 30 seconds

and a feature length HD film in 10 minutes.

Upload speeds are the fastest in the UK, with large video and data files being sent almost instantly and posting hi-resolution photos on Facebook, takes seconds.

Faster upstream speeds also boost flexible and remote working, slashing office overheads and improving employees’ work-life balance.

Large graphic and video files can be sent immediately online instead of being

physically delivered to customers on hard disk. And high quality voice and video calls will enable businesses to save time travelling to clients without losing direct customer contact.

Unlike other companies, Openreach offers network access to service providers on an open, wholesale basis, supporting a competitive market. For further information on Openreach’s super-fast broadband programme visit www.superfast-openreach.co.uk

Council, said: “This is fantastic news for Alloa and for our local businesses. The Council has been working with its business partners for a number of years to provide a great environment for companies. Now Alloa will have not only superb access via the transport network but also via the super-fast broadband network.

“I am delighted that BT is planning to install fibre

Clackmannanshire Council will be closing over the Christmas period and residents

are asked to take note.Most Clackmannanshire Council offices will

be closed from Saturday December 24 and will re-open on Wednesday January 4 2012.

For the convenience of customers the Council Contact Centre, the Alloa One-Stop-Shop, registrar’s office and adult care offices will be open on Wednesday 28, Thursday 29 and Friday December 30. Alloa Library and cash collection point will also be open, but on reduced hours.

Over the festive period there will be some changes to waste collection days. Collections of bins and recycling boxes due on Monday December 26 will now be carried out in advance on Saturday December 24. Similarly, collections of bins and recycling due on Monday January 2 will also be carried out two days earlier on Saturday December 31.

In the event of severe weather, customers are asked to present their bin on its day of collection and collections will be carried out as soon as weather permits.

Forthbank Recycling Centre at Bowhouse Road, Alloa will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

ALLOA LIBRARY WILL BE OPEN:Saturday 23 December 9am - 1pmWednesday 28 December 9am - 5pmThursday 29 December 9am - 5pmFriday 30 December 9am - 5pmSaturday 31 December 9am - 1pm

CASH COLLECTION:Weekdays 9am - 4.30pmSaturdays 9.30am - 12 noon

Other than existing bookings, the following hours will apply for leisure facilities:

TULLIBODY CIVIC CENTRE:Closed 24 - 27 December inclusiveOpen 28 - 30 December inclusiveClosed 31 December - 3 January inclusive

Dumyat, Dollar Civic Centre, Bowmar Centre, Sauchie Hall, Alloa Town Hall and Cochrane Hall: All Closed 24 December - 3 January inclusive

TILLICOULTRY COMMUNITY CENTRE:Closed 25 December - 3 January inclusive

MECS (Mobile Emergency Care Service is not affected by the holiday arrangements.

When offices are closed, emergencies requiring Council services, such as urgent housing repairs, can be reported on tel: 01259 450000.

The Emergency Duty Social Work Team is available by phoning 01786 470500.

Full details are available on Clacksweb.org.uk

Council festive hours


The Ochils Mountain Rescue Team (OMRT)

hosted an event that saw all teams in Central Scotland take part in a joint exercise.

On Saturday, December 10, the team hosted the Central Scotland Mountain Rescue Group (CSMRG) joint exercise.

Teams from Lomond, Killin and Moffat Mountain Rescue Teams visited the local branch as well as representatives from Central Scotland Police (Assistant Chief Constable Allan Moffat), the Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA) and the Community Defibrillation Team of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

The Scottish Ambulance Service Air Wing cancelled due to dense fog preventing the helicopter from landing. However, the OMRT would like to thank them for their brave attempt to attend.

The aim of the annual joint exercise is to allow neighboring mountain rescue teams to work in mixed groups while under the pressure of having to complete a diverse range of tricky and often highly technical tasks within a tight timescale.

It is important for the teams to be able to slot into this shared mode of implementing mountain rescue as every year they are asked by the police to assist in major real live rescues together.

It is vital that the teams can spontaneously merge into one highly effective and cohesive unit as and when required. Sharing experiences and exchanging good practice has been found to be an ideal way of achieving this.

The exercise involved the teams working their way around five different scenarios against the clock.

These included rescuing an individual who was stranded on a ledge in the quarry at the Wallace Monument and searching for a missing person on the steep snow covered slopes above Witch’s Craig near Blairlogie.

They also set up a technical rescue from the top of Alva Glen quarry and lowered a loaded stretched down the quarry face then ensuring the each team member abseiled safely down.

In Dollar Glen the group searched and located three separately located people in the glen and provided appropriate casualty care.

Finally, in Coalpots Woods, near Fishcross the group took part in an exercise designed to test individual team

Ochils was the destination for rescue exercise

By Alison Mann

member’s ability to micro-navigate using a map and compass and locate various markets placed in the woods.

The group have thanked Fat Man’s of Alloa for providing the catering service at the end of the exercise.


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D Day for Alva PoolThe fate of the Alva pool now rests

in the hands of Clackmannanshire council as members of Ochil Leisure Enterprises handed in their business plan today (Friday).

The group rallied round support and handed their plan to the council, which if accepted could create much needed jobs in the area as well as providing obvious health benefits.

Their proposal outlines their plans for

keeping the Alva pool open for members of the community.

Simon Kindlen, spokesman for the group said: “At our most recent meeting we discussed the project and came to the conclusion that it’s about more than the pool.

“It’s also to do with the health of a community and the wealth of a community and creating jobs.

“It is a fallacy that you can’t make

money from a pool.“It will be a cultural community hub

as well.”OLE had previously written a letter

to Clackmannanshire council informing them that the report submitted today would be an ‘interim business plan’.

Time constraints meant they could not produce a full report.

Within the letter, signed by Jenny Paterson, the group state the interim

business plan will: “Summarise research to date and include financial modelling to show what scenario will be sustainable and provide health and community benefit.

“The second stage will be to engage a team of consultants to undertake in depth research and business planning on behalf of the group.

“Ochil Leisure Enterprises are currently exploring a number of options

By Alison Mann

Continued on page 13

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01259 210 666T ulliallan Castle could be home

to a single Scottish police force after Kenny MacAskill

dismissed Glasgow and Edinburgh it was revealed this week.Currently being used as the

national police training academy, Tulliallan is ideally situated to service the whole of Scotland, and is very ac-cessible in all directions of travel.

Plans for a single police and fire service have already been an-nounced in the Scottish Parliament but the Justice Secretary has hinted that the Scottish Police College at Tulliallan could be home to the headquarters.MacAskill believes the new

headquarters should not be based in Edinburgh or Glasgow. Indica-tion of this is evident as Strathclyde Police Headquarters at Pitt Street in Glasgow is currently for sale at £2.5m (although they are believed to be moving to a new £38m office in Glasgow’s east end.)If not the home for the headquar-

ters, Tulliallan will play a major role in the new single force. When asked about the new

headquarters he said: “It will not be Edinburgh or Glasgow. Tulliallan seems fine as a place as any for a chief constable to be based.”

The single police force could be up and running as early as April 2013

but the Scottish Government should have Royal Assent by next summer.

MacAskill added: “As President of ACPOS Chief Constable Smith will lead the reform on behalf of the police service.“I know people in the services will,

like Chief Constable Smith, rise to the challenge and shape and deliver new services we can be proud of,

services which build on the strengths of what we already have.“In the police service, the ACPOS,

ASPS, SPF, SPSA and SCDEA are looking forward, not back, and are determined to work constructively with Government to deliver an effec-tive and efficient new Scottish Police Service.

“In fire & rescue, all eight Chief

Fire Officers and the FBU are looking forward, not back.“I know this journey is at times a

challenging one - change is always a tough call - but this is a journey which the whole of Scotland is on.”

Plans for the single police force outline the force would be split into 32 divisions to stave off centralisa-tion.

Scottish Police HQ coming to Wee County?By Alison Mann

Tullibody’s Leona is hitting all the right notes

at Open Mic UK Competition American Retro GlassCentre Pages

Renowned artist Petra Kaiser visits Retro Glass in Alloa

09.09.11

In this issue...

Wee County sports

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Lornshill athletic track

officially opened Page 9

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PASSERS-BY have been alarmed

by evidence of vandalism on

Parliament Walk, the tree-lined path

leading to 14th-century Alloa Tower.

Two decorative objects have been

damaged – the reflective Sentinal statue

figure at the start of the walk and one of

the slender “tribute” trees halfway down.

The figure, designed by artist Rob

Mullholland as part of last year’s

Imagine Alloa project, is one of several

such artworks dotted around the town

– made from marine grade polished

stainless steel which has a highly

mirrored surface.

Each figure, standing at over 2.7

metres and weighing nearly a ton,

creates its own shape and form.

In this case, the upper body and one

of the upraised arms have been dented

several times - clearly in an act of

vandalism.

The tree has been broken over on the

lower part of the trunk and now lies at

a 45-degree angle, again signs show

deliberate interference

Several of its branches have also

been sheered. Each of the trees along

the path, which also leads to the Tesco

superstore, carries a tribute plaque ‘in

loving memory of Mark Lovell’.

The Wee County contacted Central

Scotland Police regarding this, but they

were unavailable for comment about our

enquiry at the time of going to print.

Have vandals been busy?

WELL, here we are again… better

late than never, and certainly

not trying to pretend that you have not

noticed our absence.

We won’t bore you with the technical

and economic details, but we will simply

say “thanks” for reminding us of just how

missed in the community The Wee County

News has been.

No one is pretending, either, that these

are not challenging times for the print

journalism industry generally and we are

deeply aware of the depth of readers’

affection as we return to print.

Over the next few weeks there will be

further developments across our portfolio

which will see the launch of new titles

and some old ones reappear.

We believe that this community

appreciation will provide the foundation

of a new and trail-blazing stage in the

long and honourable history of the Wee

County News.

Our paper is nothing without the help

and support of the local community. It

is that relationship which keeps us going,

enabling us to deliver the news each and

every week. In the past, there may have

been some issues but that was the past.

Going forward, we would like to think that

we will become the best newspaper in

the County once again, not only in terms

of readership but in sales too.

Our advertisers are important to us

also, and we would like to work with

them during this difficult economic time,

as we appreciate the challenges that

businesses face on a day to day basis.

Remember, if you have something to

share with us, please do get in contact –

we are happy to talk and share with you

your news stories!

Do join us in the journey. It’s going to

be – like the paper itself – informative,

exciting and fun.

Your weecountynow out on a Friday!

Alloa Academy NotesInter-House competition

Congratulations to pupils in Schaw House who have won this week’s Inter-House competition and gain 15 points for the House. Bruce were in second place gaining 10 points with Erskine in third place gaining 5 House points. 2B2 and 1S1 recorded the highest number of pieces of excellent work.

Christmas Ceilidhs Our Christmas ceilidhs are coming up

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

Christmas Concert EventThe Christmas concert on Monday 12th

December was a lovely experience which gave a wide range of students the chance to show off their musical and artistic talents. Particular thanks are due to the students who performed at extremely short notice due to the sudden medical absence of members of the party! Entertainment was highly varied and included an instrumental group, instrumental and voice solos, a strings group, a rock group, a choir and community singing

with an action-packed, highly memorable version of “The Twelve days of Christmas”. Refreshments were served by members of the Enterprise and Employability class and Christmas crafts were also on sale. The Art works on show were testament to the high levels of effort and ability of the staff and pupils of the Art department. All who attended thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Thanks to all tutors and to Mrs Young for a great event.

S4 PrelimsThe S4 prelims, knocked off course by

industrial action and high winds finished on Tuesday of this week with the re-scheduled PE exams. We are grateful to our chief and deputy chief invigilator for all of their organisation and to the parents who came in to help with ionvigilation. Our classroom assistants did a fantastic job working out timings for timetables and acting as readers and scribes. It was noted by all involved that the conduct of S4 pupils was, as expected, excellent.

Pupil Council Meetings

Meetings of all year group Councils will be taking place this week. Representatives have been elected from every House Group. The council meetings are chaired by one Senior Prefect and one House Captain.

Christmas charity collection

We will again be collecting household items

for Start-up Stirling, but have made this into a House competition with items collected by House captains in each House group area. The House collecting the highest number of items will be awarded 15 points. Start-up Stirling puts together packs of goods to help homeless people set up when they get accommodation. We are looking for tinned goods, (baked beans, spaghetti, soup, fruit, peas) dried goods (pasta, rice salt, jam) or toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, tissues).

Christmas eventsOn Tuesday 20th December, we will be

welcoming our chaplains into school to conduct our 3 Christmas assemblies. On Wednesday 21st we will have the famous Alloa Academy Penultimate event with pupils completing a quiz, and attending activity “zones” in the morning and the teachers’ show in the afternoon. On Thursday 22nd during period 3 and 4 there will be a whole school sing-along and pupils will be dismissed from school at lunchtime. School will resume on Monday 9th January at 8.40. Merry Christmas to all parents and friends of the school.


The Wee County’s MP joined a debate on

supporting unpaid carers on Carers Rights Day.

Gordon Banks, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire joined a panel of politicians and professionals on the debate.

The debate highlighted the theme “Money Matters” and brought together carers and decision-makers to address the key issues and barriers carers face today. The panel included Gordon Banks MP, John Swinney MSP and Florence Burke from The Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

Panellists discussed the issues faced by unpaid carers and considered financial barriers including increases to statutory day care services and fuel costs. Carer’s allowance is currently paid at £55.55 per week. Unpaid carers provide substantial or regular care in the home

for a friend or relative who may have a serious illness, disability or mental illness.

Every year, over £720 million worth of benefits go unclaimed by Carers in the UK who do not realise they are entitled to financial support. This event is part of a national awareness campaign helping people caring for friends or family members to access all the financial and practical support they are entitled to.

Gordon Banks MP said; “Research shows that carers save the UK economy £119 billion per year, including the £10.3 billion saved in Scotland. Aside from the altruistic compassion the UK’s 6 million carers show they are also taking the strain off Government provision.

“Because of this it is in the national interest for Governments and local authorities to treat and

MP supports carers rights

provide for carers in an appropriate manner and to recognise their service through financial contribution and respite services.

“The caring agenda is an issue I have been involved with over the years and it is one which I remain committed to.”

Just a reminder that the Alloa Town Centre BID will be bringing Reindeer to Alloa this weekend.Santa and his friends will be in the town centre on

December 17 from 10am and will take a procession through the town at 12noon.

The winner of the Wee County’s competition to win a ride on Santa’s sleigh will also be drawn during the day.

Santa Claus will also be in his grotto in G R McFarlane Jewellers, Mill Street, Alloa on December 15 to 17 and 22 to 24. The grotto will be open from noon until 4pm where Santa will meet children and listen to what they would like for Christmas.

Visiting the grotto costs £5, which includes a photo and gift. The Town Centre BID are also running their annual

Christmas Window Competition this year as part of their drive to promote Alloa as a vibrant place to shop.

To enter businesses simply need to decorate their windows, take a picture and e-mail it to the BID office at [email protected]. The winner will be revealed on December 22. First prize is £250, second prize is £100 and third prize is £50.

Reindeer in Alloa this weekend

Children’s ward visited by SantaSanta Claus came to town

early this year to make a special visit to the Children’s Ward at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

He was joined by an elf and a snowman and together they helped launch a special Christmas party. The highlight came when Santa presented the children with gifts.

A large number of the presents were donated by Serco, the facilities management company at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, who

also co-ordinated the other donations from kind hearted local businesses and well-wishers.

Forth Valley Royal Hospital Children’s Ward Manager, Frances Hislop, said: “There is never a good time to feel unwell, but no child wants to be in hospital at Christmas time. It’s been great to give the children an extra special festive treat.

“They had a brilliant time at the party and their little faces lit up as they saw Santa

walking through the door.” Mike Mackay, Contract

Director for Serco, said: “People have been very generous with their donations. Putting a smile on a child’s face is priceless and we are extremely grateful to everyone who has helped make this Christmas party a success.”

The party marks the first Christmas for the new Children’s Ward, which opened when maternity and children’s services moved to Forth Valley Royal Hospital in July 2011.

Sunday night dance: Old time, modern and sequence dance will be held in Alloa Town Hall from now until April 15 2011 from 7pm for 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Admission is £5. On December 18 J Kawalskie will be providing the music. Bring your own refreshments.

Alloa Writers: The Alloa Writers Club will be off until Monday, 9 January 2012.

Alva Baptist Church: There will be a candle light Carol Service in the church on Christmas Eve at 7pm followed by mince pies and hot drinks. Our Christmas Day service starts at 11am. All welcome. The next coffee morning will be on Wednesday 11 January.

Darby and Joan Club: Domino result -1 Mrs M Nolan, 2 Miss W Eames, consolation Mrs V Spence. Whist result – 1 lady Mrs May Hill, consolation Mrs M Gillespie. 1 gent Mrs M McGhee consolation Mrs C Shephers. New members welcome every Wednesday 1.45pm.

Clackmannan’s Festival of Christmas: The festival last week suffered from the weather again this year. However, thanks are due to everyone involved with making this year such a successful community event again. At the end of Saturday, the sum raised for church funds was £1364 and there are promises of more to come.

Fruit Barra: The Coalsnaughton Fruit Barra is

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

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

Dollar Parish Church: This Sunday 18 December the service for the fourth Sunday in Advent will be led by Rev. Ernest Sangster. There will be a service at Wardlaw House, Station Road, Dollar at 5pm. Monday 19 December, the Monday Housegroup will meet at 10am at the home of Susan Duthie. Further information from Muriel Simpson 742953.

Dollar Museum: The Museum shop has a great range of exclusive items which would make ideal Christmas gifts. Besides Christmas cards there are fridge magnets, coasters, key rings, mugs, tea towels and notepads. All are designed especially for Dollar Museum. The 2012 calendar has 12 colour photographs of local views and comes in a DVD-size box which, when open, sits on a desk or table. All these items can be sent easily by post. The Museum is open at weekends until Christmas - Saturdays 11 - 1 and 2 - 4.30 and Sundays 2 - 4.30. Entry is free and there is still time to see this year’s exhibition on Farming.

Wee County Walkers: Why not join in the free walks led by Wee County Walkers? Become fitter as you enjoy and easy interesting walk. No need to

book. Meet us in the car park beside Cats’ Protection just before 2pm on Tuesday. Back in time to meet the children coming out of school. Walks are suitable for all ages and abilities. Find out about local history as we walk. Put on comfortable footwear, dress for the weather and enjoy. Short, safe walks open to everyone. For more information contact Jane on 01259 290316 or 07825 052677. Come on your own or bring a friend.

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

Bingo Tea: The village Christmas bingo tea that had to be cancelled due to the weather, has been rescheduled for tomorrow (Thursday) 15 at 7.30pm.

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

Muckhart Quilters: The group meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the Coronation Hall from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Mavis 781473 or Sue 743226.

Sauchie and Fishcross U F Church: Last Sunday morning, the Church Choir presented a message in song and narration entitled “The Very First Christmas”. A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols took place in the evening. The Women’s Association Christmas Party is on Thursday from 2 p.m. There will be no Bible Study or Choir Practice this week. The Friday Club for Kids (Leo Club) meets from 6 until 7.30 p.m.

On Sunday the children of the Kites Group and Leo Club will lead us in our Christmas Family Service. This will also be our Christmas Gift Service. Tea will be available afterwards in the hall. The Choir will present a Christmas message at the Evening Service, at 6.30 p.m.

Carpet Bowls: Held each

Wednesday afternoon noon to 2pm in Sauchie Hall. £2 entry includes tea and coffee. Bowls are provided, just wear sensible shoes. Ideal for beginners.

Devon Angling Association: The Annual General Meeting of the Devon Angling Association

will take place at The Royal Arms, Tillicoultry, on Tuesday 10 January at 7.30pm. All members are invited to attend.

Tullibody Healthy Living: Tullibody Fruit Barra will be open on Thursday 22nd December for the collection of christmas orders only. If you would like to place an order you can do so by calling us on 01259 724374 or pop into our office at 13 Tron Court. All orders must be placed by monday 19th December.

Tullibody and Cambus Girlguiding: To join the leadership team. Contact Ann-Margaret on 07908252104 or Girlguiding Clackmannanshire on 01259 211318.


What’s on in your weecountyAlloa

Clackmannan

DollarKincardine

Menstrie

Muckhart

Sauchie

Tullibody

Alva

Fishcross

CoalsnaughtonTillicoultry

Do you have an event you would like to publish in ‘whats on in your wee county’?

Email the details to:[email protected] call: 01259 404006

Sauchie Hall7pm till 1am

Tickets £10.00

LIVE BAND PIPE BAND SINGERS

For Tickets contact

01259 725222 or 01259 721646No alcohol to be brought in as bar will be available. • Over 18s only

SAUCHIE HOGMANAY BASH


Healthy Sauchie residents were given a taster of

the tasty food the local Fruit Barra has to offer.

Sauchie Activ8 hold the popular Fruit Barra every Wednesday 10am until 1pm, but held the taster session so people could try what was on offer.

The taster session went down well with local residents who were able to try sweet potato, parsnips and butternut squash, lightly seasoned and spiced, roasted in the oven.

weecountyCHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR ARRANGEMENTS

Editorial/Advertising Copy Deadlines

For Friday 30.12.11 - Wednesday 28.12.11 (4pm)For Friday 6.1.12 - Wednesday 4.1.12 (4pm)

Editorial to [email protected] to [email protected]

Telephone: 01259 404 006

Scott, Vicki and all the staff wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2012

news

Clackmannanshire Council is reviewing

its civic licensing duties and as part of the first phase of the review is considering taxi, private hire car and street trader licensing.

Councillor John Biggam, Convenor of the Regulatory Committee said: “Most people use a taxi, private hire car or street trader at one time or another so it is something that needs wide public consultation. It is important that the conditions contained within the licences relating to taxis and private hire cars are reviewed periodically so we have the best possible service to users. I urge all users and providers to take this opportunity to make their views known so we can give the people of Clackmannanshire the services they desire.”

As part of the review the Council also aims to raise the awareness of the rights and the responsibilities of both service users and service providers.

Survey questionnaires have been created to

gauge the opinion of the users and providers of these services and the public in general in shaping how taxi, private hire car and street trader services will be provided over the next few years.

Paper copies of the questionnaires are available in main

Council buildings and the survey questionnaires are also available online at ClacksWeb at clacksweb/council/consultationlist/?consultation=192.

The completed forms can either be handed into Council offices or posted back to the address on the questionnaire.

The results from this consultation exercise will be available early next year and any recommendations for changes to the conditions attached to future licences will be made in discussion with the providers.

Additional copies of the questionnaire will be posted out on request.

Please contact the licensing administrator on 01259 450000 if you would like the Council to include your views on local taxi, private hire car and street trader services.

Review of civic licensingBy Alison Mann

Sauchie fruit and veg taster sessionsActiv8 educate tastebuds with a fruit fest

Bogus charity collectors could be targeting homes in

Clackmannanshire so residents have been asked to be vigilant.

Keith Brown, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane is urging constituents to be on the lookout for bogus charity collectors – a growing problem that is estimated to cost UK charities up to £50 million in lost income annually.

Mr Brown said: “The increase in bogus charity collections is a real concern and something that has causing a great deal of damage to charities across the nation.

“Obviously charities lose out because donations they should be receiving are being diverted to bogus collectors but more damaging still is the potential loss of public confidence as charity supporters express growing concerns and fears over donating goods.”

“Charity collections of household goods are an important way of not only reducing waste and preserving the environment, but of generating vital funding for good causes. Collectors deliver branded bags to households asking the public to fill them with unwanted clothes and goods for a set collection date.

“Whether collected goods are passed on for resale at charity shops, sold overseas or recycled, they can generate a solid income stream for good causes.

“Fraudulent collections have increased considerably in recent years with the Fundraising Standards Board recording an increase of 100% in public complaints about the issue and the Charity Retail Association reporting that 10% of a recent sample of bag collections were found to be bogus.

“The National Fraud Intelligence

Bureau affirms that bogus collections are carried out by organised criminals, with links to money laundering, human trafficking and serious violent offences. Typically, goods collected by such gangs are transported to Eastern Europe where they are sold at a considerable profit.

“Nevertheless, it is important for people to remember that the large majority of collections are legitimate. Charities really need your support, so it’s simply a case of ensuring that your goods go exactly where you want them to go.

“By making a few simple checks, you can give with confidence to the charities that so desperately need our support.

“And, if you have suspicions that a collection is not legitimate, make sure you report it. The more intelligence is gathered, the more the authorities can identify, arrest and convict those involved.”

Little Lewis, left, (age 2) enjoying his fruit taster

Warning over bogus charity workers

Friday 16.12.11 16 Friday 16.12.11 17

Mac’s TaxisWe are working over the festive season

Do not risk it ... get us to driveTel: 01259 215 572

(wheelchair access in taxis)

Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Lost and found, contact Michelle 01259 210708Neutering contact Lorna 01259 720405

All other enquiries including admissions contact Sandra 01259 213692

Admission by arrangement onlyWishing all our customers, members and

adopters a very Merry Christmas

Would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Tel: 01259 219 500Whins Road, Alloa

email: [email protected]

Wee Co

unty

News

ARTW

ORK PR

OOFThe Auld Hoose

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

01259 73126026 Forth Street, FK10 4LX

Billy & Liz would like to thank all their customers and wish them all a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAROUTSIDE BARS AVAILABLE

tel: (01259) 213 914

PRIMROSE BARTHEPRIMROSE BARTHE

MORNING ROLLS FRESH EVERY DAY SELECTION OF CAKES

BAXTERSFamily Restaurant and Takeaway would like to wish customers a very Merry

Christmas and a Happy New YearOrders taken for birthday cakes

Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm59-63 Mill Street , Alloa • 01259 725 450

CROWN INN77 Stirling Street, Alva

FREE HOGMANAY PARTYWith THE DERIVATIVES

Doors close 10pm

COME ALONG EARLYStephen, Tracey and the boys wish

everyone all the best for 2012

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Yearwww.smsa l loa .com

GLASS & STEELE LtdWE’LL GET YOU MOVING

Major brands stocked. Sales, Accessories, Spares and Cycle Repairs

High Quality Bike Ranges Viking and PiranhaMotorcycle and wheelchair and pram repairs.

Best wishes for the festive seasonCHRISTMAS CLUB NOW OPEN01259 215236 • 36 Mar Street Alloa

HILL STREET GARAGEThomsons of Alloa

TEL: 01259 722042 GARAGE

Wishing all our customersa Merry Christmas and a great 2012

from Graham, David and Tam

Pensioners Christmas party a hit!Over 450 senior

citizens from across Clackmannanshire were treated to a brilliant Christmas day out this week, as the annual Senior Citizens Christmas Party was held on Tuesday in Alloa Town Hall.

Organised by Alloa and District Round Table, it is the largest event of its kind across Central Scotland which included various entertainment from Hillfoots Hobos and their ceilidh music, carol singing from Sunnyside Primary, an extract from this year’s panto by

the Forefront Theatre Group and headlining the event was world champion Elvis impersonator and local man, Jonny Lee Memphis.

The free tickets for the popular event were distributed by Community Police from Central Scotland Police and by Clackmannanshire Council Community Wardens.

Attendees were able to tuck into homemade stovies and ice cream, whilst being entertained at the event, which has been taking place annually for years.

Diagio were very kind in

providing a bar and staff to give the senior citizens a drink when they arrived.

Colin Lynch, who sits on the organising committee for the Round Table said: “The event went really well, we got good feedback on the day.

“The senior citizens seemed to enjoy the show, it was a good day out for them.

“The day wouldn’t have been possible without Central Scotland Police and Clackmannanshire Council who helped so much.

“Thanks also to local band Nae Danger for providing the PA system, it was a huge

help. Thanks also go to the Hillfoots Hobos, Sunnyside Primary, Forefront Theatre Group, Jonny Lee Memphis and Diagio for providing the bar.”

The event was a real local show, something which the Round Table planned to do.

Colin added: “We tried to have local acts for local pensioners.

“For us it went well, we like to support local causes and charities. To help provide this event for over 400 pensioners in Clackmannanshire is good for the community. It’s good to give something back.”

SEASON GREETINGS TO ALL OUR CLIENTS.

Good luck to all new businesses in clackmannan

that started this yearwww.bgateway.com01259 726 430

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous

New Year to all our customers past, present and future

Buchan Town carsPrivate Hire Taxi CompanyFestive greetings to our customers

from all at Buchans.All the best for 2012

Going out - let us take you there01259 213 215 • 01259 725 213

01259 217 777

Seasons Greetingsfrom

Manor Crescent Dental CentreStill accepting NHS patients

with early appointments availablewww.manorcrescent.co.uk

6 Manor Crescent, Tullibody Alloa

01259 219 977

Libby's

www.libbysfashion.co.uk • [email protected]

for fashion head to toe

(01324) 552282

Libby's Fashion, 34 Main Street, Larbert, Stirlingshire, FK5 3AW, Scotland, UK

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Elizabeth Anne.

ListersHAIR • BEAUTY • NAILS

Helen, Derek, Samantha and Angela wish everyone

a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

11 Mar Street, Alloa • 01259 722021

M.G INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES LTD

• WINDOW VENTS / SFS HINGES• PLASTIC PACKERS: FLAT / WEDGE / BRIDGE / FRAME• WINDOW SCREWS/ FRAME FIXINGS / CONCRETE SCREWS• HAMMERFIXINGS / POLYPINS / WOOD & DRYWALL SCREWS• TEFLON SHEETS & JIGS / ABRASIVES / ADHESIVE TAPES• EXPANDING FOAMS / SILICONES / FILLERS & ADHESIVES• PAPER PRODUCTS / JANITORIAL & CLEANING PRODUCTS• WORKWEAR & SAFETY PRODUCTS

All Ex Stock Available for Next Day Delivery

With over 20 years experience in the industry we also have fulltechnical backup and pride ourselves on our competitive pricing

All enquiries welcomeNew Tool Catalogue available now

Block 2 Units 3&4, Alva Industrial EstateAlva, Clackmannanshire, Scotland FK12 5DQ

Tel: 01259 762 762Fax: 01259 762 763

Accounts: 01259 762 764E mail: [email protected]

Wishing all our customers past and present a Merry Christmas and a Happy New YearTel: 01259 762 762 • Fax: 01259 762 763

Accounts: 01259 762 764Email: [email protected]

8 Cushenquarter Drive, Plean, Stirling, FK7 8ED Tele/Fax: 01786 812277 Mobile: 07789 760 999

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL For All Your Surfacing Needs

Covering Central Scotland • Family Run Business FREE ESTIMATES

All Work Guaranteed • Distance No ObjectBEST WISHES FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS

The HarviestounCountry Hotel and Restaurant,

TillicoultryStill time to treat your family or friends to a sumptuous Christmas or Hogmanay meal in our Courtyard Restau-rant or in the Tobermory Function Suite. Elizabeth and staff thank all patrons for their continued support and

wish all, a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year www.harviestouncountryhotel.com • e-mail [email protected] .

Telephone: 01259 752 522

We wish all our advertisers a Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year

weecountynews

Friday 16.12.11 16 Friday 16.12.11 17

Mac’s TaxisWe are working over the festive season

Do not risk it ... get us to driveTel: 01259 215 572

(wheelchair access in taxis)

Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Lost and found, contact Michelle 01259 210708Neutering contact Lorna 01259 720405

All other enquiries including admissions contact Sandra 01259 213692

Admission by arrangement onlyWishing all our customers, members and

adopters a very Merry Christmas

Would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Tel: 01259 219 500Whins Road, Alloa

email: [email protected]

Wee Co

unty

News

ARTW

ORK PR

OOFThe Auld Hoose

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

01259 73126026 Forth Street, FK10 4LX

Billy & Liz would like to thank all their customers and wish them all a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAROUTSIDE BARS AVAILABLE

tel: (01259) 213 914

PRIMROSE BARTHEPRIMROSE BARTHE

MORNING ROLLS FRESH EVERY DAY SELECTION OF CAKES

BAXTERSFamily Restaurant and Takeaway would like to wish customers a very Merry

Christmas and a Happy New YearOrders taken for birthday cakes

Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm59-63 Mill Street , Alloa • 01259 725 450

CROWN INN77 Stirling Street, Alva

FREE HOGMANAY PARTYWith THE DERIVATIVES

Doors close 10pm

COME ALONG EARLYStephen, Tracey and the boys wish

everyone all the best for 2012

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Yearwww.smsa l loa .com

GLASS & STEELE LtdWE’LL GET YOU MOVING

Major brands stocked. Sales, Accessories, Spares and Cycle Repairs

High Quality Bike Ranges Viking and PiranhaMotorcycle and wheelchair and pram repairs.

Best wishes for the festive seasonCHRISTMAS CLUB NOW OPEN01259 215236 • 36 Mar Street Alloa

HILL STREET GARAGEThomsons of Alloa

TEL: 01259 722042 GARAGE

Wishing all our customersa Merry Christmas and a great 2012

from Graham, David and Tam

Pensioners Christmas party a hit!Over 450 senior

citizens from across Clackmannanshire were treated to a brilliant Christmas day out this week, as the annual Senior Citizens Christmas Party was held on Tuesday in Alloa Town Hall.

Organised by Alloa and District Round Table, it is the largest event of its kind across Central Scotland which included various entertainment from Hillfoots Hobos and their ceilidh music, carol singing from Sunnyside Primary, an extract from this year’s panto by

the Forefront Theatre Group and headlining the event was world champion Elvis impersonator and local man, Jonny Lee Memphis.

The free tickets for the popular event were distributed by Community Police from Central Scotland Police and by Clackmannanshire Council Community Wardens.

Attendees were able to tuck into homemade stovies and ice cream, whilst being entertained at the event, which has been taking place annually for years.

Diagio were very kind in

providing a bar and staff to give the senior citizens a drink when they arrived.

Colin Lynch, who sits on the organising committee for the Round Table said: “The event went really well, we got good feedback on the day.

“The senior citizens seemed to enjoy the show, it was a good day out for them.

“The day wouldn’t have been possible without Central Scotland Police and Clackmannanshire Council who helped so much.

“Thanks also to local band Nae Danger for providing the PA system, it was a huge

help. Thanks also go to the Hillfoots Hobos, Sunnyside Primary, Forefront Theatre Group, Jonny Lee Memphis and Diagio for providing the bar.”

The event was a real local show, something which the Round Table planned to do.

Colin added: “We tried to have local acts for local pensioners.

“For us it went well, we like to support local causes and charities. To help provide this event for over 400 pensioners in Clackmannanshire is good for the community. It’s good to give something back.”

SEASON GREETINGS TO ALL OUR CLIENTS.

Good luck to all new businesses in clackmannan

that started this yearwww.bgateway.com01259 726 430

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous

New Year to all our customers past, present and future

Buchan Town carsPrivate Hire Taxi CompanyFestive greetings to our customers

from all at Buchans.All the best for 2012

Going out - let us take you there01259 213 215 • 01259 725 213

01259 217 777

Seasons Greetingsfrom

Manor Crescent Dental CentreStill accepting NHS patients

with early appointments availablewww.manorcrescent.co.uk

6 Manor Crescent, Tullibody Alloa

01259 219 977

Libby's

www.libbysfashion.co.uk • [email protected]

for fashion head to toe

(01324) 552282

Libby's Fashion, 34 Main Street, Larbert, Stirlingshire, FK5 3AW, Scotland, UK

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Elizabeth Anne.

ListersHAIR • BEAUTY • NAILS

Helen, Derek, Samantha and Angela wish everyone

a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

11 Mar Street, Alloa • 01259 722021

M.G INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES LTD

• WINDOW VENTS / SFS HINGES• PLASTIC PACKERS: FLAT / WEDGE / BRIDGE / FRAME• WINDOW SCREWS/ FRAME FIXINGS / CONCRETE SCREWS• HAMMERFIXINGS / POLYPINS / WOOD & DRYWALL SCREWS• TEFLON SHEETS & JIGS / ABRASIVES / ADHESIVE TAPES• EXPANDING FOAMS / SILICONES / FILLERS & ADHESIVES• PAPER PRODUCTS / JANITORIAL & CLEANING PRODUCTS• WORKWEAR & SAFETY PRODUCTS

All Ex Stock Available for Next Day Delivery

With over 20 years experience in the industry we also have fulltechnical backup and pride ourselves on our competitive pricing

All enquiries welcomeNew Tool Catalogue available now

Block 2 Units 3&4, Alva Industrial EstateAlva, Clackmannanshire, Scotland FK12 5DQ

Tel: 01259 762 762Fax: 01259 762 763

Accounts: 01259 762 764E mail: [email protected]

Wishing all our customers past and present a Merry Christmas and a Happy New YearTel: 01259 762 762 • Fax: 01259 762 763

Accounts: 01259 762 764Email: [email protected]

8 Cushenquarter Drive, Plean, Stirling, FK7 8ED Tele/Fax: 01786 812277 Mobile: 07789 760 999

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL For All Your Surfacing Needs

Covering Central Scotland • Family Run Business FREE ESTIMATES

All Work Guaranteed • Distance No ObjectBEST WISHES FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS

The HarviestounCountry Hotel and Restaurant,

TillicoultryStill time to treat your family or friends to a sumptuous Christmas or Hogmanay meal in our Courtyard Restau-rant or in the Tobermory Function Suite. Elizabeth and staff thank all patrons for their continued support and

wish all, a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year www.harviestouncountryhotel.com • e-mail [email protected] .

Telephone: 01259 752 522

We wish all our advertisers a Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year

weecountynews

weecountyFriday 16.12.11 18 entertainment

SUDOKU

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

DODGY PARKING

Answers on page 25

WIN A MEAL FOR 2 AT THETO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN all you have to do is complete the crossword below and send it to: Wee County News, 38 Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JG *Terms & conditions apply

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

Address: ....................................................................................................................

CRO

SSW

OR

D

ACROSS1. Elementary (6)4. Sort (4)8. Made known (9)9. Scintilla (4)10. Season (6)13. Fluent (6)15. Unguent (4)18. Reptile (9)

19. Bed on a ship or train (4)20. Conflict (6)

DOWN1. Law officer (7)2. Intended (5)3. Solitary (4)5. Watercraft (5)

6. Conclusion (3)7. Sound (5)11. Violent disorder (7)12. Flower (5)14. Diadem (5)16. Obviate (5)17. Passport endorsement (4)18. Young mammal (3)

4 Friday 16th December 2011 Re-GENTHE

Sizzling Suzie’s Winter Warmers

It’s that time of year again. When you have to decide how to use up all the stuff cluttering up the freezer before you hit the shops for Christmas essentials like big bags of ice for all your drinks!! Only kidding, my bottom freezer drawer is always full of ice. ☺ One thing I love about Christmas is that you buy and eat stuff you would normally never have at any other time of year. Which reminds me that I need a new nutcracker. (No jokes about Karen or Paula please Ed!) heehee. If like me you are expecting some visitors over the festive season, then here a few ideas for some tasty canapés. Most can be made in advance, make you seem like the hostess with the mostest and really leave the freezer shop bought ones standing. Any sandwich cut into shapes with a festive cookie cutter is always a winner.

Yorkshire PudsReady made small Yorkshire puddingsCold cooked thinly sliced roast beefHorseradish sauce (optional)Gravy

Make up some good quality gravy mix or like me defrost some you made with last weeks roast dinner. Place some beef, ¼ tsp of horseradish and a tbsp of gravy into each pudding. Alternatively you can use roast pork and apple sauce or chicken and stuffing. Reheat in a hot oven 190c for about 10-12 min.

Mini BruschettaToastGarlic clovesFresh chopped tomatoes with seeds removedFresh mozzarellaBasil leaves

Using a pastry cutter cut out the bread into small shapes before toasting. Rub each toast with a cut garlic clove. Top with some tomato, mozzarella and a basil leaf.

Mini sausage rolls1 pack of ready cooked mini sausages1 pack of ready made puff pastryMustard/or ketchup

Roll out the pastry and cut into small squares. Dab a spot of mustard or ketchup in the middle and roll up a sausage diagonally. Bake in a hot oven 190c for 10-12 min.

Retro Cheese/and pineapple hedgehogLarge orangeCheese cut into cubesCan of pineapple chunksCocktail sticks

Cut a small slice out of the orange so it will stand without rolling. Skewer the cheese and pineapple onto the cocktail sticks and push into the orange. Not only will it give your guests a laugh but I guarantee it will get eaten!!

Mini mincemeat puffsJar of good quality mincemeatPack of all butter puff pastryBeaten eggSugar

Using a fancy shape cut out the pastry. Add a tsp of mincemeat and using the beaten egg as a glue top with another shape. Prod with a fork to make steam holes. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar before baking in a hot oven 190-200c for 15-20 min until well risen golden and crispy. Have a bowl of whipped cream or a jug of single cream on the side.

Well folks take care, have a good one and see you all in the New YearLove Susie xx

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

contact, ANNE on 07506723569 Email [email protected] or visit www.angelanne.co.uk

Your Horoscope Predictions

By Anne Smith

Taurus (21 April - 21 May)

Gemini (22 May - 21 June)

Cancer (22 June - 23 July)

Leo (24 July - 23 Aug)

Virgo (24 Aug - 23 Sept)

Scorpio (24 Oct - 22 Nov)

Sagittarius (23 Nov - 21 Dec)

Capricorn (22 Dec - 20 Jan)

Aquarius (21 Jan - 19 Feb)

Pisces (20 Feb - 20 Mar)

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Angel Anne Spiritualist Medium/Psychic &Tarot

Taurus (21 April - 21 May)

Gemini (22 May - 21 June)

Cancer (22 June - 23 July)

Leo (24 July - 23 Aug)

Virgo (24 Aug - 23 Sept)

Scorpio (24 Oct - 22 Nov)

Sagittarius (23 Nov - 21 Dec)

Capricorn (22 Dec - 20 Jan)

Aquarius (21 Jan - 19 Feb)

Pisces (20 Feb - 20 Mar)

Time for you to take a big leap forward on any creative projects that have felt stuck for the last few months, as Venus will be in your career house until the 21st you will have the passion and drive to make good progress. The Moon is in Aries on New Year’s Day, so you may be in the mood to party all night long, your intuitions are also high at this time, so trust your gut instincts.

Raw, honest discussions with friends and family will lead to deeper bonds. As you learn to trust your own mind and emotions, you’ll be able to share more of yourself with the people that you love. When your ruler Venus moves into your career zone on the 22nd, you’ll feel like you can once again rule the world. You also get an extra special bonus when lucky Jupiter goes direct in your sign on Christmas Eve.

Your ruler Mercury goes direct on the 13th, providing some much needed stability; you’ll be able to cope with daily stress much better after that. The New Moon on Christmas eve puts in you in the mind set of being around those who love you, wither it is family, friends or a lover, it is a time of heart felt communications, try to find time for some fun too.

Time out is needed if possible can you arrange to be at a place of relaxation to down load all of that stress, a yoga or meditation class or at least sequester yourself in the comfort of your home, you’ll feel safe and protected, after the eclipse a sense of calm and peace will return, but only if you effectively deal with the issues that come up in a positive manner.

Long standing issues you’ve had with friends or any groups you’re associated with will come under the microscope. If you must break ties, try not to mourn too long, as it’s for the best. You’re leaving toxic associations behind so that you can move into a newer and brighter phase next year, one that will engage your creative life fully and see you achieving goals in personal and working life.

You may be going through a whole range of confusing feelings about your job, are you in the right line of work? If not, you may feel like it’s time to move on, or circumstances may move you. On the other hand, you may be vying for a new position and feel incredibly anxious about whether you’ll get it. This month is all about you wanting more for you, so sit up take notice but in a constructive manner.

The planets are sure to rock your scales this month, you may be wishing you could crawl under the covers and avoid all means of communication, the inevitable transformation following the chaos is all for the good. Take quiet time at home to ponder and reflect over all of the amazing lessons you learned in 2011and set about making changes for the better.

Change might be painful, but it’s always good in the long run. You can shed layers upon layers of yourself this month, especially the parts that no longer fit. Now that you’ve pinpointed any problem areas in your thinking, you can uproot any negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier ideas. What you say to yourself is utterly crucial now; make sure those mind-messages are positive.

Mercury goes direct on 13 December and communication will cease to be an ongoing migraine, your ruler Jupiter goes direct, on the 25th and work and money are on the verge of a major acceleration. After too many fits and starts over the past four months, you’ll be psyched to get back in the saddle again.

It’s recently been difficult to focus, let alone form clear sentence structures, but it gets better as the next few weeks unfold. The Winter Solstice on 22 December marks not just the first day of the Sun entering your stars, but also the return of lighter, longer days. On 24 December, just a few days later, the New Moon in Capricorn invites you to start drafting your New Year’s resolutions for 2012.

Your ruler Uranus is finally coming out of retrograde on 9th December, after putting your life in limbo for the past few months. Your creative fires will be reignited without leading you to burnout. Then Mercury goes direct on the 13th, easing up any stress around communication with family, friends and colleagues, and life is more balanced from the 15th.

Duality and mixed messages could be a huge test of your faith this month. But the good news is that Mercury and Jupiter will both come out of retrograde, bringing communication and luck back you’re your everyday life. (They go direct respectively on the 13th and the 25th). On Christmas Eve, the New Moon in Capricorn marks the perfect moment to sit down and write down your plans for 2012.

Aries (21 March - 20 April) Libra (24 Sept - 23 Oct)

Food for the soulRecently featured in “Pick Me Up” Magazine And the Scottish Sun

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OH DOGGY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE!Dogs Trust issues advice to keep dogs happy and healthy this winter

Dogs Trust advises:

• Let your dog’s winter coat grow, and if you have a puppy, short- haired or old dog it is a good idea to buy him a sensible coat to keep out the chill. • Keep your dog on a lead if it is snowing very heavily. Snow can be disorienting and can affect a dog’s sense of smell so he could become lost easily. • Make sure your dog is microchipped and wearing an ID tag in case he does get lost. • Grit used to melt snow can cut their paws and make sure you wipe your dog’s legs, feet and stomach when you come indoors after a snowy walk.• Antifreeze is highly poisonous but tasty to dogs! Keep it well out of their reach.• Never leave your dog in a car during extreme weather, hot or cold. • Do not let your dog walk on frozen ponds – the ice may not be thick enough to take his weight.• If your dog does fall through the ice never be tempted to go after them but encourage them to swim back to you.

As Britain continues to endure a

cold and icy snap, our four-legged

friends need a little extra care and

warmth to ensure they cope with the

wintery conditions.

For more information visithttp://www.dogstrust.org.uk/az/w/winterto download a free ‘Winter and Cold Weather’ factsheet.

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 19lifestyle

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

Age: 6 years

Lives: A life of luxury

Breed: Moggie

Likes: Being pampered

Dislikes: Being out in the rain

Fudge

PETof the week

weecounty recipes

Duchesse potatoesA tasty twist on traditional

mash to serve either with Christmas lunch or the coldcuts on Boxing Day, these Duchesse potatoes are given extra flavour by the addition of the stock paste and spring onions. Instant mash works just as well if you_ in a hurry. You_ need a piping bag and a nozzle. Serves 6.

INGREDIENTS450g (1lb) potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes for boiling1 tbsp vegetable stock paste4 spring onions, finely chopped1 egg, beatena knob of buttersplash of milk

METHOD1. Preheat the oven to 200C/Gas Mark 6 and lightly grease a baking tray.2. Bring a pan of salted water to the boil and add the potatoes. Cook for approximately 20 minutes until soft. Drain and mash well until smooth.3. Stir in the vegetable stock paste until evenly distributed throughout, then add the spring onions and stir well.4. Add the beaten egg, a knob of butter and a splash of milk. Mix well.5. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag. Pipe onto the baking tray in small portions a few inches in diameter.6. Transfer to the oven and cook for 15 minutes, until piping hot and golden brown.

Goodbye glossFrom June Sarpong to Victoria

Beckham since the late 1990s celebrities have rarely gone as far as the corner shop for a pint of milk and a newspaper without slapping on their lipgloss. And where celebs go the beauty pages and the public follow. So for a good ten years we’ve been stocking up on Juicy Tubes, slapping on Stila Lip Glaze and coveting DuWop’s magical Lip Venom. But all of a sudden, and not just because winter is calling, the lip has gone seriously matte again.

Rule One: Think Modern. If we’ve learnt one thing from gloss it’s that lips should shine. Fashion may be harking back to the 1980s but our make up shouldn’t have to thanks to ever more creative formulations. The new generation of lipsticks have a subtle shine or shimmer to them,

even the most matte lip colours have a moisture to them which old school ‘sticks were devoid of. Check out MAC for lipsticks which are easily separated in to eight different ‘finishes’ from lustre to glaze.

Rule Two: Bold is Best After years of glossing it may come as a shock to swipe on a slick of lippy straight from the bullet but deep pigmentation is where it’s at. This winter bold, deep reds and plums take over from a summer of oranges and pinks so jump right in the deep end. A killer red lip may seem hard to wear but can be so flattering. Pillar box red is universally flattering - try Shu Uemura’s Rouge Unlimited in RD190.

Rule Three: Be Prepared What the Scouts said applies to make up artists too. Where the sheen of lip gloss was forgiving when wearing

lipsticks nothing is more essential than a good foundation. Two simple ways to ensure an excellent lip are to gently brush with a dry toothbrush to remove dry flakiness and encourage blood flow and to use a great lip salve as often as needed.

Rule Four: Neat or Not? Take a close look at any recent beauty shots from and you’ll see two distinct trends - the ‘done’ lip and, of course, the ‘undone’ lip. The done lip is more carefully applied using a base of lip liner and layer

upon layer of brushed on colour whereas the undone lip is more romantic, patted on to the centre of the lips for a fairy tale rosebud pout or gently smeared beyond the lipline using a finger. Which you choose should depend on the rest of your face and your outfit but, mostly, which you feel most comfortable in.

Rule Five: Lips Alone It’s an old rule but a good one. When wearing a statement lip, a face needs little else. A swipe of mascara, a pat of powder and a dusting of blusher and you’re ready to go.

Think modern for gloss

weecountyFriday 16.12.11 20 recruitment

CLEANING OPERATIVEJob No: ALL/22942Employer Reference: Sterling MillsSOC Code: 9233Wage £7.50 Per HourHours 12 hours over 5 daysLocation Sterling Mills Tillicoultry FK13Duration TemporaryDate posted 02 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription A cleaning operative is required to work in a busy retail shop. Experience is preferred and must be able to work on your own initiative, candidates must be able to start work immediately.How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Michelle Dixon at Platinum Environmental and Hygiene Ltd, [email protected] Platinum Environmental and Hygiene Ltd

INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIAN IND/EL/SLDJob No: ALL/22877Employer Reference:IND/EL/SLDSOC Code: 5241Wage £14.00 - £20.00 PER HOURHours 40 HOURS PER WEEK, DAYS, MONDAY TO FRIDAYLocation KINCARDINE FK10Duration TemporaryDate posted 08 November 2011Closing date 15 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Dutton International require Industrial Electricians for work on power station in Scotland. Candidates must be time served with proven track record and also hold a current CCNSG Card (SCATS) for installation and maintenance work. Temporary position 3-6 months.How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Ian McLean at Dutton International Ltd, [email protected] Dutton International Ltd

PRODUCTION OPERATORJob No: ALL/22958Employer Reference: Production OperatorSOC Code: 8139Wage Meets National Minimum WageHours 9-5 Mon-FriLocation ALLOA, Clackmannanshire FK10Duration TemporaryDate posted 07 December 2011Closing date 06 January 2012Pension details No details heldDescription Temporary Position

may lead to permanent. Required to prepare documents for scanning. Remove bindings, sort paper and complete internal paperwork. Applicant must have high levels of concentration and manual dexterity essential. Regular lifting will be required. A signed Confidentiality Agreement will be required by the successful candidate. Minimum Wages. Applies.Applicants should apply in writing to: CADmeleon UK Ltd block B, Castle St Ind Est, Castle Street, Alloa, FK10 1EU . How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to David Hunter at Cadmeleon Technical Services, Block B, Castle Street Industrial Estat, ALLOA, Clackmannanshire, FK10 1EU.Employer Cadmeleon Technical Services

SECURITY OFFICERJob No: ALL/22962SOC Code: 9241Wage MEETS NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGEHours 2/7Location ALLOA FK10Duration PermanentDate posted 09 December 2011Closing date 16 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Security Officer required for part time position - 18 hours per week. SIA License is required and must be able to start straight away. Driving license also preferred.How to apply You can apply for this job by telephoning 01236 438040 and asking for Kailley Fleming.Employer Palmaris Services

Door to Door Sales PersonJob No: ALL/22961SOC Code: 7121Wage £12,500 PER ANNUMHours 40 HOURS PER WEEK, MONDAY-FRIDAY, 12PM-8PM WITH BREAKLocation Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10Duration PermanentDate posted 08 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription The ideal candidate will be motivated and driven to hit and exceed achievable targets. You will also be customer focused. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone wanting to build their sales skills into a career within a progressive and established multinational market leader. Ideally you will either have some sales experience or a military, authorities background and eager

to move into a sales career. Full driving licence is essential. This is a rewarding door to door sales role where you will be provided all of the necessary tools and technology to achieve great results. You will be advising potential customers on the benefits and savings available for them when switching to a competitive package for their home energy, as well as providing solutions for them to save on their usage. Employer states OTE £29,972.00 or call Kevin on 0191 230 3947How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kevin Tinkler at Prime Time Recruitment, [email protected] Prime Time Recruitment

TEACHER OF ART - ALVA ACADEMYJob No: ALL/22957Employer Reference: CLA0598SOC Code: 2314Wage £21,438 - £34,200 per annumHours 35 hoursLocation Alva, Clackmannanshire FK12Duration TemporaryDate posted 07 December 2011Closing date 14 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Applications are invited from suitably qualified GTC registered teachers. This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. You will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to a formal offer of employment being made by Clackmannanshire Council and the cost of this check which will be deducted from your salary. Should you have di fficulty in accessing the documents and application form and wish to request a paper application pack please call 01259 452234 (24 hrs) and leave your details along with the reference number of the post. Please note that if you are selected for interview you will be notified by e-mail. How to apply You can apply for this job by visiting www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/fe/tpl_ScottishPortal01.asp?newms=jj&id=112829&aid=11667Opens new window (unless Javascript disabled) and following the instructions on the webpage.Employer Clackmannanshire Council

ASSISTANT MANAGER/MANAGERESSJob No: ALL/22954SOC Code: 1163Wage £6.50 PER HOURHours 30 HOURS PER WEEK,4-5 DAYS FROM7,10.00AM-6.00PMLocation TILLICOULTRY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK13Duration PermanentDate posted 06 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Previous experience in a similar role essential. Duties include all aspects of assisting in the day to day running of a busy home store including cash handling, dealing with customers, planning staff rota’s and other duties. How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/22954, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am - 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255.

BAR STAFFJob No: ALL/22967SOC Code: 9225Wage Meets Nat Min WageHours 15+ PER WEEK OVER 7 BETWEEN 7AM - 2AMLocation ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10Duration PermanentDate posted 12 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Must be over the age of 18 due to the serving of alcohol, previous experience would be an advantage but not essential as full training can be given. Duties are serving customers, till and cash handling and keeping bar area clean and tidy. The employer has claimed an exception under the Equality Act 2010. Applicants to apply in writing for the attention of Kenno, please mark in subject line of email Claremont LodgeHow to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kenno at Claremont Lodge Hotel, [email protected] Claremont Lodge Hotel

SUPERVISORJob No: ALL/22963SOC Code: 7111Wage Meets Nat Min Wage

Hours 35 HOURS PER WEEK, 5 DAYS FROM 7, BETWEEN 9AM-6PMLocation TILLICOULTRY, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK13Duration TemporaryDate posted 12 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Previous experience is preferred but not essential. Duties include supervising assistants, customer service and housekeeping duties. Post or hand in CV to storeHow to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kitsty Green at Alexon, Unit 23 Devon Vale, TILLICOULTRY, Clackmannanshire, FK13 6HQ.Employer Alexon

DEISEL MECHANICJob No: ALL/22952SOC Code: 5223Wage Meets Nat Min WageHours MON - FRILocation Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10Duration PermanentDate posted 06 December 2011Closing date 30 December 2011Pension details Pension availableDescription Oran Environmental Solutions is currently recruiting for a Diesel Mechanic. The role requires supporting the Process Operations Manager, Process Manager and other maintenance staff by ensuring that all mechanical equipment is maintained to guarantee operational and Health & Safety requirements.To apply for this role it is essential that you have experience working on all or some of the following - JCB, Massey Ferguson, New Holland, Telehandler or Load Alls. You will be Time Served in a mechanical discipline and hold a full driving license. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Erin Hamilton at Oran Environmental Solutions, [email protected] Oran Environmental Solutions

PLUMBERJob No: ALL/22929SOC Code: 5314Wage £10.00 PER HOURHours 16-30 PER WEEK OVER A 7 DAY ROTA BETWEEN 7AM-5PMLocation Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10Duration PermanentDate posted 23 November 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Must have relevant

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 21recruitment

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

Send your CV with a covering letter by post or email to:HUB Media LtdScott MocharEllismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Uddingston G71 5PW Tel: 01698 803909 Email: [email protected]

Final part of the short story competitionPage 2Bellshill Park & Ride works begin

Page 3Annual Dog Fun Day

Page 9SportsA round up of all your local sport

Pages 17, 18, 19 & 20

Local propertiesFOR SALE & LET on pages 13

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Issue Number 51

26th August - 8th September 2011

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LANARKSHIRE’S LARGEST, OLDEST & THE BESTDRY CLEANERSSINCE 1987 LAUNDERETTEOPEN 7 DAYS

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Cut The Coupon Cut The Cost

*T&C ApplyJinky returns to Viewpark

I t was a day that brought Viewpark to a standstill. It was a day that many will

remember for a long time to come, and for some, it was

the climax of a long hard project, as the statue and

memorial garden in memory of footballing legend, Jimmy

Johnstone was unveiled.

They turned out in their numbers (estimated to be

in excess of 3,000 in total) to witness the official unveiling

of the statue for one of their own, a Celtic legend, a

Scotland legend, but more importantly, a Viewpark

legend.The statue and memorial

garden take pride of place on Old Edinburgh Road, just a few

hundred yards from Jimmy’s home as a child.Jinky, who was idolised

across the country for the footballing great that he was,

died in 2006 after suffering and battling with Motor

Neurone Disease since 2001.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive

neurodegenerative disease that attacks the upper and

lower motor neurones. Degeneration of the motor

neurones leads to weakness and wasting of muscles,

causing increasing loss of mobility in the limbs, and

difficulties with speech, swallowing and breathing.

The muscles affected first tend to be those in the hands,

feet and mouth. In Scotland, it’s expected that over 150 people will

suffer from the condition each

year and there are currently continued on page 10

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

207mmx69mm-2for1_v1 copy.pdf 2 06/04/2011 17:21

Agnes Johnstone with Bertie Auld officially open the Jinky Memorial Garden

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The birth of Hubmanpage 2Male carer group CHAPS

secure funding

page 3 Charity Zumbathon raises

money for The Samaritanspage 8Premier League Snooker

competition

page 9HUB SportsRound up of the latest sportpage 14, 15 & 16

Community in Unity

Issue Number 27

16th - 29th September 2011

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Windmills Cafe seek Scottish votes

Representatives from the three Scottish charities with First Minister Alex Salmond - Photo courtesy of Saunders Imaging

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BAR / RESTAURANTManse Road, Newmains, Lanarkshire01698 383412 383451 - 383429Open 7 Days12p.m. - till lateDeliveries from4.30pm till late

S taff from Windmills Cafe in Motherwell joined

forces with the two other Scottish charity

finalists from the National Lottery Awards in a visit

to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh.

With just 1 week to go until voting closes in the

National Lottery Awards finals, Windmills cafe, a

training cafe supporting young people aged between

18 and 25 with learning difficulties, are seeking the

communities support and votes to win the ‘Best

Education Project’ category which would see them

scoop a prize fund of £2,000.On Thursday, 8th September, Windmills staff

Margery McBain and Karen Matusavage were joined

by trainees Cara, Anthony and Lynsey on the trip to

Holyrood to publicise the ‘Scottish Vote’ for the 3

Scottish projects in the finals of this years awards.

They joined forces with Sense Scotland and The

Dean Cauvin Trust, the only other Scottish projects to

make it through to the finals.Trainee Lynsey was beaming with pride having been

continued on page 3

BAR / RESTAURANTManse Road, Newmains, Lanarkshire01698 383412 383451 - 383429Open 7 Days12p.m. - till lateDeliveries from4.30pm till late

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Indulge in the Eastern MagicEvening Buffet £9.99 (Mon-Thurs) 5pm-12am

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Lunch Buffet £4.99Throughout Autumn(Mon-Sat) 12pm-3pm

F our Perth Strathtay Harriers athletes travelled to Grangemouth

stadium on the 7th September

to compete in the Scottish Disability Sport Senior Athletics

Championships.Typical Scottish weather of rain,

sun and strong winds did not stop the

Perth stars competing against the

best disability athletes in the country.

Our team comprised of Louse Brett,

Michael Rice, Kevin Rice and Finlay

Skeet, all members of the clubs

performance squad.Louise Brett competed in 4 events

in her class, 60m, 100m, 200m and

Soft Ball and had a clean sweep of

Gold medals. As we near the end

of the season Louise continues to

dominate her T37 class (Cerebral

Palsy) sprints events and is only 1.5

seconds off the qualifying time for the

200m event at the 2012 Paralympics

Michael and Kevin Rice had good

runs in their 800m race despite the

challenging weather conditions.

Highlight for the Perth athletes was

the Soft Ball event, Kevin winning

Gold in his class event with a throw of

HUB Launchcentre pages Craigie Playgroup

page 5HUB Grubpage 11HUB SportsRound up of the latest sportpage 15 & 16

Serving Perth and Surrounding Areas

Issue Number 10

15th - 28th September 2011

THE PERTHSHIRE FREE!

continued page 2

Athletic success for Perth disability stars

Perth athletes warming up at Grangemouth

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Louise Brett with one of her 4 Gold medals

Friday 16.09.11 Issue 841In this issue...Support local talent

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01259 210 666T ulliallan Castle could be home

to a single Scottish police force after Kenny MacAskill

dismissed Glasgow and Edinburgh

it was revealed this week.Currently being used as the

national police training academy,

Tulliallan is ideally situated to service

the whole of Scotland, and is very ac-

cessible in all directions of travel.Plans for a single police and fire

service have already been an-nounced in the Scottish Parliament

but the Justice Secretary has hinted

that the Scottish Police College at Tulliallan could be home to the

headquarters.MacAskill believes the new headquarters should not be based

in Edinburgh or Glasgow. Indica-tion of this is evident as Strathclyde

Police Headquarters at Pitt Street

in Glasgow is currently for sale at

£2.5m (although they are believed to

be moving to a new £38m office in

Glasgow’s east end.)If not the home for the headquar-

ters, Tulliallan will play a major role in

the new single force. When asked about the new headquarters he said: “It will not

be Edinburgh or Glasgow. Tulliallan

seems fine as a place as any for a

chief constable to be based.”The single police force could be up

and running as early as April 2013

but the Scottish Government should

have Royal Assent by next summer.MacAskill added: “As President

of ACPOS Chief Constable Smith will lead the reform on behalf of the

police service.“I know people in the services will,

like Chief Constable Smith, rise to

the challenge and shape and deliver

new services we can be proud of,

services which build on the strengths

of what we already have.“In the police service, the ACPOS,

ASPS, SPF, SPSA and SCDEA are looking forward, not back, and are

determined to work constructively

with Government to deliver an effec-

tive and efficient new Scottish Police

Service.“In fire & rescue, all eight Chief

Fire Officers and the FBU are looking

forward, not back.“I know this journey is at times a

challenging one - change is always

a tough call - but this is a journey

which the whole of Scotland is on.”Plans for the single police force

outline the force would be split into

32 divisions to stave off centralisa-

tion.

Scottish Police HQ coming to Wee County?

By Alison Mann

Tullibody’s Leona is hitting all the right notes

at Open Mic UK CompetitionAmerican Retro Glass

Centre Pages

Renowned artist Petra Kaiser visits Retro Glass in AlloaReporter/Trainee Reporter

Are you looking to make the next move that will put your career on the right path? Or

perhaps hoping to take that first step into the world of journalism?

Hub Media is looking for a talented reporter /trainee reporter to join its team working on the Wee County News, based in Alloa.

The successful applicant will be adaptable and able to cover news and sport while bringing exciting ideas to the table.

We are looking for an ambitious reporter or graduate with a qualification in journalism, shorthand and knowledge of Scots Law. The ideal candidate will have an excellent news sense and the ability to remain calm while working to a strict deadline.

This is an opportunity to join an expanding company who have a strong portfolio of newspapers across South Lanarkshire, Perthshire and Clackmannanshire. Three papers will be launched from the Alloa office in the very near future and you will play a key part in shaping their content.

A car owner would be preferred. Send written applications, including CV and clippings to:Hub Media LtdScott MocharEllismuir House, Ellismuir Way, UddingstonG71 5PWTel: 01698 803909Email: [email protected]

extensive experience. Gas safety certification would be an advantage but not essential. Duties include general plumbing and heating, boiler and bathroom installs.How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to John O’ Malley at Alpha Plumbing Services, [email protected] Alpha Plumbing Services

MECHANICAL FITTERJob No: ALL/22918Employer Reference: Mechanical FitterSOC Code: 5222Wage EXCEEDS NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGEHours 70 HOURS OVER 7 DAYSLocation ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10Duration TemporaryDate posted 17 November 2011Closing date 15 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription We are looking for people who have served a recognised mechanical engineering apprenticeship and or substantial on the job experience with regular appraisals assessments or a technical reference from previous employer to demonstrate competence.C CNSG Safety Passport is also required. We are ideally looking for fitters who have experience of overhauling valves. Terms and conditions are as per the NAECI terms and conditions. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Kevin Devine at Weir Services Limited, The Harlands, New Alloa, Alloa, Clackmananshire, FK10 1TB or to [email protected] Weir Services Limited

CLEANERJob No: ALL/22858SOC Code: 9233Wage EXCEEDS NAT MIN WAGEHours 10 HOURS BETWEEN 8.30AM-4.30PM MONDAY-FRIDAYLocation ALLOA, CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK10Duration PermanentDate posted 03 November 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Experience an advantage but not essential as training will be provided. Duties include, mopping, hoovering, ironing and other cleaning duties as required. Must have access to transport. This is a permanent job initially working 10 hours per week with the potential to increase to 30 hours per week. Applicants to email a CV and referencesHow to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to Tanya Paterson at Diamond Domestics, [email protected] Diamond Domestics

HOTEL DUTY MANAGERJob No: ALL/22945SOC Code: 1221Wage £6.50+ per hourHours 30-40 per week, 5 days over 7, between 7am and 12 midnightLocation Tillicoultry, Clackmannanshire FK13Duration PermanentDate posted 02 December 2011Pension details No details heldDescription Must be 18+. Experience within a hotel industry is essential. Must hold a personal licence. Duties will include staff training and supervision, cash handling, liasing with suppliers and contractors, reception duties, food and beverage. Due to the nature of the role the postholder may be required to stay overnight

as and when required. The employer has claimed an exception under the Equality Act 2010. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to David Rutherford at Bridge Inn, [email protected] Bridge Inn

FEMALE SUPPORT WORKERS Job No: ALL/22740SOC Code: 6115Wage £6.30 TO £7.25 PER HOURHours RELIEF & PART TIME 12-30 HOURS AVAIL - DAYS/EVENINGS/WENDSLocation CLACKMANNANSHIRE FK12Duration PermanentDate posted 27 September 2011Pension details Pension availableDescription Female only. Driving License, telephone and access to a vehicle is essential. ILS provides high-quality community based care services across Scotland. Experience would be beneficial, however full training will be given. You will provide physical, personal and domestic support to our

Scheme Member and hold a full scheme record for working with vulnerable adults, if successful the cost of this is 59 which will be met by the applicant although 30 of this cost will be reimbursed following 6 months satisfactory employment. The employer claims an exemption to the Equality Act 2010.How to apply For further details about job reference ALL/22740, please telephone Jobseeker Direct on 0845 6060 234. Lines are open 8.00am - 6.00pm weekdays only. All calls are charged at local rate. Call charges may be different if you call from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus Office and use the customer access phones provided to call Jobseeker Direct. The textphone service for deaf and hearing-impaired people is 0845 6055 255.

SCANNER OPERATORJob No: ALL/22943SOC Code: 8139Wage Meets National Minimum WageHours 09.00am - 17.00pm

Monday-FridayLocation ALLOA, Clackmannanshire FK10Duration TemporaryDate posted 02 December 2011Closing date 06 January 2012Pension details No details heldDescription Temporary Position may lead to permanent. Required to operate a computer controlled high speed document scanner 3000 pages per hour. Applicant must be computer literate, high levels of concentration and manual dexterity essential. Regular lifting will be required. A signed Confidentiality Agreement will be required by the successful candidate. Minimum Wages. Applies.Applicants should apply in writing to: CADmeleon UK Ltd block B, Castle St Ind Est, Castle Street, Alloa, FK10 1EU. How to apply You can apply for this job by sending a CV/written application to David Hunter at Cadmeleon Technical Services, Block B, Castle Street Industrial Estat, ALLOA, Clackmannanshire, FK10 1EU.Employer Cadmeleon Technical Services

service users in their own homes. You will have a genuine interest in working with people and will use your excellent communication skills to enhance peoples quality of life through promoting independence within the home and community. Must be a PVG

weecountyFriday 16.12.11 22 Christmas Lifestyle

The Twelve Days of Christmas - not just a nursery rhyme

We participate in many festive gift-giving traditions without really thinking

further than how they might affect our credit cards, but do we ever stop to think how they originated? We take a look back across the ages to see how the custom of gift giving developed.

Gift-giving customs can be traced back as far as the winter solstice in Roman times, when high ranking officials were expected to present gifts to their Emperor during the Roman festival of the Kalends on the first day of January. In fact, Caligula, during his reign, made it compulsory, and would stand impatiently at the front door of his palace waiting for them to arrive.

Originally these gifts, known as ‘strenae’, had taken the form of branches of evergreen taken from the grove of the goddess Strenia, but Caligula was not very keen on olive branches. So the Roman dignitaries began to give gifts of honey and cakes as symbols of their wish that the new year might be full of sweetness, and gold that it might bring prosperity. That made Caligula much happier, as he was very keen on prosperity, especially his own.

The words ‘Kriss Kringle’ mean Christ-Child and is the basis of a medieval legend, that the infant Jesus himself gave presents. This helped to establish Christmas Day as an occasion for

Christians to give gifts. In those days presents were very modest and included such things as cakes, fruit, nuts, dolls and items of clothing.

Boxing Day - now an excuse to finish off the Christmas turkey with a plate of pickles - was originally a gift-giving occasion, as its original name of Offering Day suggests. It takes its modern-day name from the ancient practice of opening boxes that contained money given to those who had given their service during the year, such as servants, housemaids, postmen, lamplighters, parish watchmen and the like. It can also be linked to an older Christmas tradition in which wealthy homeowners would give their servants the day off on the 26th to visit family as a thanks for ensuring their Christmas ran smoothly. It was also the day when alms boxes, placed in churches on Christmas Day, were opened and the money inside was then given to the priest or used to help the poor and needy.

During the seventeenth century it became the custom for apprentices to ask their master’s customers for money at Christmas time. They collected this money in earthenware containers, which could be opened only by being smashed. On Boxing Day the apprentices would eagerly have a ‘smashing time’, hence the expression, seeing how much they had collected.

The gifts of Christmas past

Whats under the tree?

There are so many traditions surrounding

Christmas that we take for granted without ever thinking about their origins. One of the most popular - the singing of The Twelve Days Of Christmas - has its origins in a much darker period of history than one might imagine.To most people, the carol is a delightful nonsense rhyme set to music. But it had a quite serious purpose when it was written, and was a good deal more than a pretty melody about a list of strange gifts.Between 1558 to 1829, Catholics in England were emancipated and prohibited from any practice of their faith - either private or public - by

law. It was, in fact, a crime to be a Catholic.”The Twelve Days of Christmas” was written in England as a “catechism song” to help young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith. It was a memory aid, used in the times when to be caught with anything in “writing” indicating adherence to the Catholic faith could not only get you imprisoned, it could get you hanged, drawn and quartered - a rather peculiar and ghastly punishment that didn’t appear to be practised anywhere else.The gifts described in the song are not gifts in the traditional sense of the word; rather, they are hidden references to the teachings of the

Catholic faith. For example, the “true love” mentioned in the song doesn’t refer to an earthly suitor, but to God Himself. The “me” who receives the presents refers to every baptized person.The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge which feigns injury to decoy predators from her helpless nestlings, much in memory of the expression of Christ’s sadness over the fate of Jerusalem: “Jerusalem! Jerusalem! How often would I have sheltered thee under my wings, as a hen does her chicks, but thou wouldst not have it so...”

THE OTHER SYMBOLS HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:

Two Turtle Doves = The Old and New TestamentsThree French Hens = Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological VirtuesFour Calling Birds = the Four Gospels and/or the Four EvangelistsFive Golden Rings = The first Five Books of the Old Testament, the “Pentateuch”, which gives the history of man’s fall from grace.Six Geese A-laying = the six days of creationSeven Swans A-swimming = the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacramentsEight Maids A-milking = the eight beatitudesNine Ladies Dancing = the nine Fruits of the Holy SpiritTen Lords A-leaping = the ten commandmentsEleven Pipers Piping = the eleven faithful apostlesTwelve Drummers Drumming = the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle’s Creed.

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 23Services

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS ON THIS PAGE

call Heather on 01259 404 006

VAN/ VAN DRIVER

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To advertise in this section, call theWee County sales team NOW

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PLUMBERS

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weecountyFriday 16.12.11 24 motoring

Christmas Comes Early at

BROOK STREET AUTOS!

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weecounty Friday 16.12.11 25Motoring

David Morton LtdCars - Vans - All Scrap Metal

01324 612 876Glen Works, Glen Village,

Falkirk

Top Prices

Paid

Motoring

PETROL PRICESUNLEADEDASDA - Alloa - 128.7Tesco - Alloa - 128.9Morrisons - Alloa - 128.9Highest - 130.9DIESELASDA - Alloa - 137.7Tesco - Alloa - 137.9Morrisons - Alloa - 137.9Highest - 143.9Source: petrolprices.com Prices correct at time of print.

SUDOKU ANSWERS

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It was not so long ago that supermini’s became fashionable and the must

have car, but let’s not forget that they have been around for years. The only difference being they were not ‘cool’ to have and tended to be bought by older people who went to the shops and back doing around 4,000 miles a year. The Micra, Corsa and Fiesta

started to attract a differ-ent clientele with their ‘boy racer’ versions, although the engines were the same, just the styling was differet, then along came BMW with their Mini, shaping the world of supermini’s as we know it today. Step up Audi with their new A1 – but is it any good to tempt buyers away from their beloved mini?

PerformanceThe A1 is available with a selection of turbo engines to choose from 1.2 and 1.4-litre pet-rol units and a nice little 1.6 diesel. The 1.2 is best used for

town driving, but the 1.4 and the diesel are differ-ent, fast yet make excel-lent cruisers. The 1.4 is available with the very nice Audi twin-clutch semi-auto gearbox.

Ride & HandlingAs you would ex-pect, there are three trim levels to select from. Each offering something

different to the next, main difference being firmer suspension and bigger wheels as. Whilst the A1 isn’t as alert in corners as a Mini, but it’s still great fun to drive – just what good supermini’s are all about

CostsThe price of the entry-level car is attractive, and can get quite ridiculous but resale values are among the best in the class. At the moment, the A1 is an extremely desirable little car. A standard engine stop-start system helps towards excellent official fuel consumption figures and low CO2 emis-sions, which keep running costs low.

Quality Whilst the A1 is the smallest and cheapest offering from Audi, it shares the same qual-

ity that we have come to love and expect from Audi. The switches and dials have an expensive look and feel.

Safety The A1 has been awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating and offers essential items beyond the basic airbags and

anti-lock brakes. It has stabil-ity control with an electronic rear dif-ferential to help you safely round corners - especially if you are travelling far too fast into them!

Space If you compare the Audi A1 to a Mini they are poles apart. The A1 has a bigger boot than the Mini’s but whilst the Mini can seat four adults, the Audi’s rear seats are not really suitable for adults due to the sloping roofline.

ToysThere are SE, Sport and S line trim packages offer-ing not only different levels of equipment, but also firmer suspension and bigger wheels as you progress up through the range.

The one to go for? The 1.4T, it’s fun yet frugal. Not quite as fun as a Mini but cer-tainly worth buying due to the strong residuals.

Supermini’s: would you have one?


Call 01259 404006or email [email protected]

Why not advertise your property with the Wee County News?

• Spacious Ground Floor Flat• Reception Hallway• Lounge• Modern Fitted Kitchen • Two Double Bedrooms• Family Bathroom• Electric Heating • Double Glazing• Allocated Parking • Ideal First Time Buy

5 Scott Court, AlvaOffer over £54,000

Home Report £63,000

If you have just splashed out a small fortune buying

your dream home, the chances are that funds are now pretty tight.

That is nearly always the case for first time buyers, who once they have moved into their new nest must think about how best to decorate and furnish it without breaking the bank.

First think about décor. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do. It’s better not to go for anything too fussy - keep it clean and simple and add splashes of detail with the occasional throw, textured cushions, strong statement artefacts and wall decorations. Even an eye-catching ceramic bowl filled with fruit can give a room designer detail.

Many big furniture stores sell end of line items and have sections where they keep slightly damaged, but very inexpensive models. Also keep in mind that most furniture stores periodically sell off used furniture when they get rid of showroom samples or floor models. Ask about both possibilities when you shop.

If you have any wholesale furniture warehouses in your area, consider stopping by. Buying wholesale furniture is almost always cheaper than buying retail.

Maybe that coffee table wouldn’t look right your living room as it looks now, but sanded down and stained and it will look quite different.

Flea markets and charity

shops can be a great source of inexpensive, one-of-a-kind interior decorating materials. If you fall in love with a piece of discount furniture, bare in mind that moving it can be an issue. Some vendors will deliver, but only at the end of the day in the case of a market and only for an additional fee.

Don’t be afraid to bargain. Flea market vendors expect it, and with a little negotiation inexpensive items can become even cheaper.

When looking for home furnishings, try to think outside the box. You might not want to eat off that set bright pottery plates but they might make colourful wall hangings.

Unless you have a large home, select furniture and accessories on a small scale. They’ll fit into most spaces as you move them around in your home.

Storage is in short supply in most homes. Select furniture pieces that offer drawers or hanging space, such as a chest of drawers or an armoire.

When furnishing a living room or family room, choose two-seater sofas rather than one huge sofa. They’ll be easier to move and can be used forming a corner seating area opposite each other to create a conversation spot, or separately in different rooms of your home.

Select a pleasing natural or neutral colour such as tan, camel, navy, dark green or black for upholstered

Fuss free ways to decorate

furniture pieces. This will be your anchor colour. Make sure the fabric is durable so it holds up under years of use.

Gather together a collection of pillows, fabrics and accessories that harmonise with your anchor colour. You’ll be able to change the look with the seasons, giving your furniture a new, fresh look throughout the year. On a green sofa for example, you might choose yellow floral pillows for summer and camel tapestry pillows for autumn.

Buy lamps, vases, side chairs and pillows in pairs. They’ll add symmetry and continuity to a room.

When you’re arranging furniture try to use furniture or accessories in unexpected ways, such as a loveseat at the end of a bed or a big

Flea markets can be a great source of inexpensive, one-of-a-kind decorating materials.

dresser that holds videotapes and DVDs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Find what works best for you in your present

situation. If you’ve selected items with versatility in mind, you’ll end up with an arrangement that’s just right.

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 27sport GOLF

POOL

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Junior Football League Home Away

TEAM P W D L F A W D L F A GD PtsTayport 10 1 2 2 3 4 4 1 0 8 1 6 18 Oakley United 7 3 1 0 13 4 2 1 0 8 6 11 17 Newtongrange Star 9 2 1 2 8 5 1 2 1 9 8 4 12 Glenrothes 9 2 2 0 10 7 1 1 3 9 14 -2 12 Broughty Athletic 10 0 2 3 7 15 3 1 1 8 7 -7 12 Broxburn Athletic 7 2 1 0 7 3 1 1 2 5 7 2 11 Sauchie Juniors 6 2 0 0 4 2 1 2 1 7 7 2 11 Ballingry Rovers 9 1 2 1 10 9 1 2 2 5 7 -1 10 Penicuik Athletic 7 2 0 2 9 7 1 0 2 4 4 2 9 Arniston Rangers 10 1 1 3 4 11 1 2 2 6 11 -12 9 Downfield 8 1 1 2 7 6 1 1 2 8 8 1 8 Armadale Thistle 10 1 3 2 6 8 0 2 2 4 8 -6 8

PEDRO BAGS SCOTTISH TITLE

Following on from the final of the men’s Scottish final a couple of weeks ago,

Pete Smith (Locker Room A) went one step further last weekend at the Seniors (over 40’s) national event when he continued his recent good form to return with the title. With an entry of 55 players from all over Scotland taking part including a few internationalists present it was never going to be an easy passage through and a 6-4 victory in his opening match got a few nerves settled.

A second victory came following a 6-3 win and this saw him through to a potentially difficult last 16 match versus Scotland A team player Iain Gillies (Inverness). A good quality match from both players with Pete gaining momentum now and another 6-3 win was secured.

An even better performance in the quarter-final saw Pete into the semi’s with a 6-2 victory to set up a tie with Glasgow’s Anton Riley and in a cracking game this match went right to the wire with Anton failing on his second last ball in the deciding frame to hand Pete the passage into the final with which he gladly took with a 7-6 win.

The final was against Pete’s fellow Scotland B1 team-mate Paul Harkness (Dumfries) and with the first couple of frames shared a contentious foul-shot call against Paul from the referee seemed to upset Paul for a period but Pedro was in no mood for sentiment and stepped up a gear to seal a magnificent 7-3 victory and the Scottish title with it.

Congratulations from all within the Clacks Pool League on securing another Scottish title. Week 12 Results:- A LEAGUE:-Inn 4 Alva Golf Club 5 Peppes 3 Oakwood A 6 Crown A 5 Locker Room B 4 Locker Room A 6 Crown B 3 Allanbridge 5 Oakwood C 4 B LEAGUE:- Hammies 2 County 7 Oakwood B 5 Rileys 4 Cairn A 6 Crosskeys 3 Weirs 3 Cairn B 6 Oakwood D 7 Upstairs 2

Graham Henny Cup(Sponsored by the Crown) Last 16:- First leg ties were taking place this week with return matches due next Tues night and the draw is as follows:-

Oakwood D v Peppes Alva Golf Club v Oakwood A Locker Room A v Cairn A Cairn B v Gartmorn Allanbridge v Rileys Inn v Locker Room B County v Crosskeys Crown A v Oakwood C

All winners from these ties please remember all quarter final matches revert to one leg and all matches are scheduled to be played in the Crown with all dates available at clackspool.net County Doubles 2011/12 (Sponsored by the Oakwood):-Congratulations to S.Dobbie/C.Inkster, D.Dowell/G.Ross, S.Smith/G.Sneddon and K.Glass/J.Glass who all booked their place in the finals night to be held in the Oakwood on Fri 20th Jan and will be joined by last week’s winners to battle it out for the title. Clacks v B’Burn Xmas Singles:- Reminder to all players that this year’s annual tournament takes place this Sunday in Riley’s Stirling with all players to be before 1pm when the draw will take place.

Despite the tough times being experienced

by many golf clubs it was a delighted Ian Barker, Captain of Muckhart GC, who presented a profitable

Muckhart Golf Club in Good Health

set of figures at the club’s AGM on Sunday 11th December.

Ian reported the 27 hole club was financially very sound with a strong balance sheet and no debt, an achievement all the more noteworthy considering the poor weather, the uncertain economic climate, and further investment being made during the year on green keeping equipment and refurbishment of the gent’s shower room in the clubhouse.

The priority in the forthcoming year will again be investment in

the courses which have received consistent praise from members and visitors for their condition and presentation. A sign of this growing reputation is highlighted by the club confirming they have been asked to host a Midlands Alliance event as well as the Perth and Kinross County Autumn competition in 2012.

A successful Open Day in September brought in over 40 new members, but there are still a few places available for new members, and those interested should contact the club on 01259 781423.

There was however one

note of sadness at the end of the evening with the retiral of the clubs secretary Alison Houston after 6 years in post. Alison was thanked by Ian Barker for her hard work in the pivotal role she has played in the development of the Club, and presented with a large bouquet of flowers while announcing the club have also named a new Junior Competition in her honour. Alison is pictured here flanked by new Club President Chris Page on the left and Jim Kean who replaces her as Club Secretary.

Managers CommentsUnfortunately the Neilston v

Sauchie game was called off last week due to the poor weather. This week we are once again hoping to get this game declared playable so that we finally get the Emirates Scottish Cup tie played as it has priority over other matches.

It’s going to be a hard task ahead for the players and one in which we are going to have to put full focus on and be determined to come together as a team to win the game. The players have trained hard again this week and it would be great to get this game played and out the way for Christmas and New Year. We can take a few days and come back in the New Year still being in this competition and with a chance in

all competitions. We will be trying our hardest to

get a game played on Saturday, if our Scottish Cup tie is called off then we are try to arrange to play our Fife and Lothians Cup tie against Newburgh Juniors at Recreation Park. Please check the club website on Saturday morning for confirmation on which game will be getting played.

Sauchie Juniors are holding their Christmas party this Saturday night at Beechwood Park. There will be a good turn out of players coming along so if you would like to join us for the festive celebrations please contact the club for tickets.

Fraser, Davie & Simy

weecountyFriday 16.12.11 28 sport RUNNING

FANZONE

Central AC continued dominance of Men’s

endurance racing in the East of Scotland in winning the Senior Men’s title at the East District Cross Country Championships at Aberdeen, with a third placing for the Masters Men’s Team a welcome reward. These races were also the selection races for teams of fifteen for the Inter-District match at Holyrood on January 7th as part of the televised Edinburgh Cross Country and a number of athletes were able to make a strong case for selection. The races were held in freezing conditions over a testing course with hard underfoot conditions and each race featuring a long uphill finish.

The Senior Men’s race

incorporated the Under 20 and Masters Races over a course of some 9.6 kilometres. Central’s Alex Hendry and Ross Houston underlined their recent quality form as they battled round in the leading group of athletes. As the race unwound it found Alex locked in contention for the Gold and Silver medals with the experienced Murray Strain (Hunters Bog Trotters). Try as he may Alex could not open a telling gap on his rival as they sped round the final lap and, in spite of a spirited finish on the uphill stretch, had to settle for Silver (31min 31secs). Alex did however have the consolation of leading his Central’s Men’s colleagues to Team Gold through good runs from Ross Houston (sixth, 32.36); Matthew Sutherland (eighth, 32.58); Michael Wright (twelfth, 33.24), Lewis Millar (18th, 33.55) and Scott McDonald (19th, 33.57). Alasdair Anthony provided the back-up in 24th (34.19) while Alex Milne (78th, 39.55), Under 20 runner David Lindsay (79th, 40.01), David Eckersley (84th, 40.34), Hugh Buchanan (89th, 41.01), Alan Gall (115th, 46.21), John Millar (128th, 50.03) and Kenny Hislop (134th, 54.20) proved their fitness in the freezing conditions. Indeed Alex Milne, David Eckersley and Hugh Buchanan finished as third Masters Team on the day.

YOUNGER CUP SPONSORED BY ABERCROMBY ARMS

The Johnstone Arms took the title beating Star B 5-3 in a very close final. Thanks are passed on to Madge and all at the Abercromby for sponsoring the Cup.

MIXED PAIRS - The Scottish Mixed Pairs will be

held in the Oakwood on Saturday Jan 7th with a 12 30 reg.

ALLOA MASTERS QUALIFERS

The first Alloa Masters qualifier will be held in the Oakwood on Saturday Jan 7th with a 2 pm reg, entry £5 (there are still 4 places left for this event).

COUNTY AWAY AT HIGHLAND

The County are away to Highland on Saturday Jan 28th. The squad will be staying up at Inverness for the night and returning Sunday morning.

County squad players who have not played this season please return county shirts or a charge will apply.

BLAIR CUP SEMI FINALS & FINAL

The A division Blair Cup will be held in the Oakwood this Friday Dec 16th.

All players please be in venue for 715pm.

Alva Gc V Gartmorn, Oakwood Lounge V Abercromby A

PETER HILL PAIRS - SPONSORED BY OAKWOOD & ABERCROMBY

The Gents prelims will be held on Monday Dec 19th at the Abercromby and Oakwood all players must be in venue for 715pm, The following players will play in the Abercromby: D Mckee & A mcluckie, S Mckee & J Docherty, C Mcpherson & J Turnbull, C Baxter & B Keenan, J Goldie & K Glass, S Vaugan & J Flanagan, D Mathers & C McLaran, R Hall & S Wilson, J McKinsley & R Bond, B Hamill & T Harper, P Hartley & J Jenkins, A Ashbridge & N Wainright , C McCormack & K Hunter, S Hawkes & B McLaren, D Cadger & G Westwood, J Connal & J Connal, S Gilles & J Flyall, G Crawford & D Moon, S McAlister & D Keenan, A Burns & G Smith, D Wilkinson & C Murphy , D Frazer & B Dennis, T Thomas & Partner , G Hill & G mcmullan , J Willing & R Somerville, C Graham & E Hughes, J Derrick & Kyle , A Sutherland & M Civerlk , A Flanagan & C Hunter, G Laverty & S Laverty, S Uttley & J scott, B Allan & G Stevenson , G Quinn & I Quinn, A Paterson & D Ritchie, L Richardson & Partner.

DARTS

Coming home strong: Matthew Crawford works through the field to finish fourth in the under 13 race

Battling it out: Alex Hendy run stride for stride with eventual senior winner Murray Strain of Hunters Bog Trotters

Central do well in the east

Jennifer Emsley and Lindsay Morrison also battled hard in the Senior Women’s race (6.5 kilometres) finishing ninth (24.48) and twelfth (25.22) respectively with a much depleted team completed by Jane Waterhouse (47th in 29.53. Both leading Senior Ladies will be hopeful of making the East team for the Inter-Districts.

Matthew Crawford was Central’s only runner in the Under 13 Boys Race over a testing 3.2 kilometre course. In an exciting race Matthew moved through the field with confidence to come home in fourth overall (11min 39secs) to ensure selection for the Inter District match. In the under 13 girls race Eilidh Russell was also the sole Central runner and finished a competitive 13th place in 13.46

The Under 15 Boys faced a 4.3 kilometre challenge and on the day Aidan Cameron was Central’s top finisher in a very handy 14th place (16.29). Iain Davies was making a comeback after illness and here had to settle for 21st (17.40) ahead of a gritty effort from Kieran Potter (23rd, 17.56), while Gary MacFarlane stuck well to his task to finish 36th (19.11) as the Central Team finished sixth overall.

For the Under 15 Girls, Eilidh MacCorquodale had to battle a cold as she finished tenth in 18.36. Roisin Bonucchi had an improved run as she stuck in well behind Eilidh to finish twelfth in 19.05 and Shannon MacFarlane gave another solid performance in 16th place with 21.41.

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 29sport RUGBY

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 MIDLANDS Team Played W D L F : A Bonus Points

GRANGEMOUTH STAGS RFC 10 10 0 0 323:43 5 45 ST ANDREWS UNIVERSITY 10 9 0 1 373:116 8 44 MADRAS RUGBY 11 8 0 3 274:187 7 39 HARRIS ACADEMY FPRFC 10 8 0 2 214:200 4 36 STIRLING UNIVERSITY RFC 10 5 0 5 232:223 5 25 ALLOA 10 3 0 7 123:144 4 16 KINROSS 10 3 0 7 124:261 2 14 BLAIRGOWRIE RFC 10 3 0 7 113:220 1 13 FIFE SOUTHERN 11 2 0 9 94:231 2 10 CARNOUSTIE HSFP 10 0 0 10 88:333 2 2

ResultsSat 10th December

Kinross P Stirling Uni Harris Acad FP P Madras Carnoustie HSFP P Fife South Blairgowrie RFC P Alloa

Alloa v Blairgowrie RFC

Weekend FixturesSat 17th December

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 2

RBS CALEDONIA REGIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 Team Played W D L F : A Bonus Points

ABERDEENSHIRE 12 10 0 2 278:142 7 47 HILLFOOTS RFC 12 8 1 3 282:196 6 40 ORKNEY 12 7 0 5 282:259 7 35 MACKIE ACADEMY FP 13 7 0 6 291:277 7 35 STRATHMORE RFC 12 4 3 5 178:193 3 25 HIGHLAND RFC 11 6 0 5 203:222 3 23 GORDONIANS RFC 11 3 1 7 247:267 7 21 GLENROTHES 12 3 2 7 189:286 4 20 CAITHNESS RFC 11 4 2 5 170:210 1 17 ABERDEEN UNIVERSITY RFC 12 2 1 9 250:318 7 12

Strathmore v Highland

Highland P Aberdeen UniGordonians P CaithnessWeekend Fixtures: Sat 17th December

CALEDONIA DIV 1RESULTS 10 December

Gregor Townsend, former Scotland player and now

attack coach with the national team, visited Dollar Academy last Friday to take a coaching session with the school rugby teams.

In total, 22 pupils were involved in the master class, which lasted two hours and was recorded by an international film crew as a coaching module to be used on www.therugbysite.com

Commenting on the visit, Mr Rob Moffat, PE Teacher at Dollar Academy said: “We’re really delighted to have Gregor visit us for a coaching session with the boys and very grateful for his time. Our pupils are all very excited about the class and thrilled that the footage

Top level coaching session for Dollar pupils

Scotland attack coach drops in with a film crew to offer some advice

will be used on such a high profile rugby training website.”

Dollar Academy has always had an outstanding reputation for PE, with continual investment in resources and training opportunities for its pupils across a range of sports. Dollar Academy has achieved rugby success this year with the U-16 Rugby team reaching the finals of the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Schools Cup at Murrayfield on 26th November, which they unfortunately lost.

weecountyFriday 16.12.11 30 sport FOOTBALL

continued from page 36

HT ALLOA 1 QUEEN’S PARK 0

Alloa took the game to Queen’s but both May and Winters had their efforts saved well by the inform Parry.

Cawley broke free from the half way line but was fouled on the edge of the box by Longworth who was lucky to stay on the park, referee Anderson deemed the challenge as a yellow card, much to the dismay of the home support.

May’s thunderbolt free kick was tipped over by Parry as the Wasps looked to add to their tally.

As Queen’s pressed for the goal that would bring them level, it was Jim Bough who found himself free in the box, from a Queen’s corner but shot straight at Bain from 8 yards.

Queen’s made a double change in the 70th min to try and get back

into the game and it was sub Daly who should have levelled but his 10 yards shot was right at Bain.

Longworth must have been wondering what he had to do to score after he broke into the Alloa box only to see his weak shot go wide.

The Wasps did have the ball in the net as the match was closing. The ball was floated over from the right and as Queen’s goalkeeper Parry jumped to collect he was bundled over the line. The referee deemed the challenge on the goalkeeper as an infringement and ruled the goal not to stand.

Queen’s had loads of the ball but couldn’t take their chances and it was the home side who saw the game out and claimed a vital three points in their quest for promotion.

FULL TIME: Alloa 1 Queen’s Park 0 ATT 422

ALLOA HEAD TO BERWICK

Managers CommentTalking after the win, manager Paul Hartley said; “We were

delighted to collect full points as Queen’s Park played very well today, they were probably the better side. We scored a really good goal and stopped playing after that a bit

“One thing for sure is the players attitude was first class, the will to win was great, we saw the game out, we defended really well and kept a clean sheet – so for this we are really pleased.

“We can still claim to be the only team in the Division which has an unbeaten home record in league matches, so we will look to keep it going, we know we are strong at home.

“Queen’s Park try to play a similar game to ourselves. I thought the two players who joined the club in midweek on loan were terrific today, Stevie May worked his socks off, he gave me everything and young Kevin McHattie was different class at left back, he had a really good first half he was strong, he has had a good grounding at Hearts and knows the position well, no I was pleased with both of them.

“The team as a whole were great and I have to be pleased with that.”

Alloa make the long trip to Berwick this weekend

looking to keep the unbeaten run going.

Berwick are managed by ex Alloa man, Ian little and he will be looking to put one over his ex employers no doubt.

Paul Hartley is hoping Steve Masterton can make a least the bench and Fraser Forrest might be fit as well – all being well.

Berwick took a share of the points the last time the teams met at the Recs with a 1 each draw. A win will keep the pressure on league leaders Annan before they arrive at the Recs mid January.

weecounty Friday 16.12.11 31sport FOOTBALL

More action shots from the match which saw Wasps retain their unbeaten home run.

Irn Bru Division 3: League Table

IRN BRU DIV 3 RESULTSSaturday 10th December

Pld W D L W D L GD PtsANNAN ATHLETIC 15 6 1 1 3 2 2 9 30ALLOA 15 4 3 0 4 2 2 3 29STRANRAER 15 4 2 2 4 1 2 18 27ELGIN 13 5 1 1 1 3 2 9 22BERWICK 14 3 1 3 3 2 2 4 21CLYDE 13 3 1 3 2 3 1 7 19QUEEN’S PARK 14 2 3 1 3 1 4 -1 19MONTROSE 15 3 1 3 1 1 6 -12 14EAST STIRLING 15 2 1 5 0 1 6 -27 8PETERHEAD 13 0 3 3 1 1 5 -10 7

Alloa 1 Queen’s Park 0Doyle (6) Stranraer 6 East Stirling 0Stirling (pen 30)Stirling (pen 32)Winter (33)McColm (58)Taggart (63)Moore (83)

Weekend Fixtures: Saturday 17th December

Berwick v AlloaEast Stirling v ClydeElgin v Annan AthleticMontrose v Queen’s ParkStranraer v Peterhead

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weecounty sportCENTRAL ATHLETICS WIN IN THE EAST Page 28

Alloa added on loan duo Steven May from St Johnstone and

Kevin McHattie from Hearts to the starting line up to face Queen’s Park.

Steve Masterton, Ross McCord and Fraser Forest were still missing through injury, young Kenny O’Brien kept his place on the bench, whilst Graham Holmes who took a bad

Wasp’s keep pressure on Annan

By Sports Reporter Goal or not? Referee decided it was a foul.

Still unbeaten at home

Alloa 1Queens Park 0

knock at Montrose last week, passed a late fitness test to take his place in the starting line up.

As the fog lifted just in time for kick off, it was the home team who started the better with Cawley and new boy may linking up well to play Winters in but his shot from 12 yards was saved well from Parry .

Alloa were rewarded when they took the lead in the 12th minute with a great move down the left between Cawley and May and it was

the on loan winger who played an excellent ball to the back post and the on rushing DOYLE shot high into the net from 15 yards .

The home side should have added to the score through Cawley but his curling shot from 18 yards was well saved by the Queen’s keeper Parry.

When Gardner Speirs side settled, they came more into the game and had good chances when Jamie Longworth, then Martin McBride

tested Bain in the Alloa goal. It was Longworth again in the 38

min who had a great chance, one on one with Bain but from 10 yards shot wide.

As Alloa pushed for a second goal it was Cawley who had the chance but saw his shot saved by Parry.

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