Regular commuters through Bridge of Weir might recognise the front banner picture as one of Gibb Stuart’s (Home Hardware) windows. Every year without fail, Sandy and his team go to great efforts to create a colourful and dynamic display; this year is no exception - a visual extravaganza to brighten up the dark winter evenings.
For those with hectic schedules and unable to make the shops during normal hours, Gibb Stuart is staying open on Thursday evenings in the run up to Christmas. The shop will be open until 8pm on Thursdays 28th November, 5th and 12th December, with special offers in-store on those nights.
In Lochwinnoch, the following shops will also be staying open on Thursday 28th November: Calder Gallery and Framing, Now and Then and Little Now and Then, the Charity shop, Post Office, Quirky Florist, Penman’s Pharmacy and Castle Semple visitor centre - more info on the website http://lochwinnochextra.co.uk/whatson-late-night-opening.html
I was delighted to receive an invitation to visit the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre for their Grand Opening. The highlight of the day was being allowed to hold Orla, the Golden Eagle. I can’t tell you how fantastic it was to be that close to such an amazing creature. Closer than half an arm’s length, to make eye to eye contact was quite nerve-racking, but an unforgettable experience, one which I would encourage anyone to share.
If you are stuck for that unique Christmas gift, how about the ‘Hawk Walk’ for £35, where you will get to fly one of the hawks for an hour through the trees? Or ‘Meet the Birds Experience’ where, for £100, you can enjoy an action packed, four hour close encounter at the Centre with tuition on some of the basics of falconry, learn the falconers’ knot, encounter an Eagle Owl, meet and handle a selection of hawks, falcons, and owls, fly a hawk, and possibly handle “Orla” the Golden Eagle. Vouchers are available at the Centre, or online at the website www.llbopc.co.uk
Finally, I would like to wish you all a happy and restful (if possible) festive season. I am looking forward to 2014 and hope you will be too!
