April

The Village 2016

Voice Issue 84

Photo taken by Amanda O’Donnell, Customer Services Assistant

In this issue

News from Lesley McNeill Page 2 Auchlochan Men’s Social Group Page 12 News from David McGrane Page 2-3 News from A.C.E. Page 13 Update from Clark Contracts Page 3 Film Afternoon Page 14 News from Customer Services Page 4-5 News from Elior Page 14 One Day Together In Event Page 6 The Notice Board Page 16-22 News from Homecare Page 7 Best of British Day Menu Page 23 News from Bankhouse Page 8 Independent Living Outings Page 24 News from Lower Johnshill Page 9 Interest Groups & Events Calendars Page 25 Chaplaincy Chatter Page 10 Chaplaincy Events Calendar Page 26 Communion Service Dates Page 11 Beauty & Wellbeing Page 27

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News from Lesley McNeill News from David McGrane

Spring is definitely here with the clocks going Hello, forward and the nights get shorter. It is refreshing to see the sun and blue skies again. The weather has taken another welcome turn for the better and I notice that the Gardens are As always we welcome all new residents to the coming to life once again with plenty of new village and hope you enjoy village life with growth evident. The gardening team are us. Our thoughts and prayers are with those gearing up to tackle the enormous task of residents who are unwell or have been in providing a warm, colourful and inviting hospital over the past month. landscape for us all to enjoy over the Summer period. The greenhouse is full of new shoots The One Day Together in Scotland afternoon being nurtured and made ready for planting was a roaring success which everyone who out around the Estate. attended enjoyed. It was nice to have the tenants from the Scottish Schemes to visit us I have been speaking to South here at Auchlochan and we appreciate their Council, who advise that they did not manage support and attendance. We look forward to to have all of their planned remedial work on welcoming them again. their external road banking, between North By the time you read this article the Residents and South Lodge, completed during the recent Committee AGM will have taken place and we road closure for the new Power cables. will know who the Committee members are for However, they assure me that this will the next 12 months. I am sure the next completed as soon as possible. The far side Committee members will work as tirelessly on gully at the bad bend just outside the behalf of all Auchlochan residents, as the entrance/exit at Lower Johnshill and the current members have. Cottages has been addressed with new water pipes installed and buried to divert the stream Can I remind all residents and staff that cars away from the road’s banking. This has been a should not be parked outwith the carports at long time in the planning by the Council and the Retirement Apartments, Blocks 2 and addresses a significant hazard and associated 3. This allows access for emergency vehicles risk posed to all road users. should they need to attend to the Retirement

Apartments. Now that all of the external roads have finally Regards been reopened, can I please remind everyone that the Main entrance to Auchlochan, coming from New Trows Road, is “one way in only” and no vehicles should be exiting via the gate beside North Lodge. This applies to Residents,

Visitors, Staff and Contractors alike. It is for

the safety of everyone as there is limited visibility of vehicles already on New Trows Lesley Road for anyone stopped ready to exit at this “gate”. Page | 2

Another few dead/dangerous trees identified Your monthly update from have been removed, and in line with our insurance requirements a full stock condition survey of all of our trees has been carried out. The recommendations of this report is for further works to be carried out over the coming months. As soon as I have confirmed Works at Nethanvale are ongoing to all levels dates I shall advise all residents accordingly. and show flats are being brought up to a Some additional Hand Railings have been finishing level. provided at the steps which lead down from the car park at Retreat Phase 1 towards the Flooring is being installed and mechanical and Retirement Apartments Block3, and we are electrical works are ongoing. intending to extend the stairway at this area to effectively allow a walkway between the Kitchen units are ready to be installed.

Retreat and the Retirement Apartments. The “road underpass” at the bottom of the Works are progressing on schedule. Retirement Apartment Block 1 will have new hand railings provided, together with a general Some progress photos of the works to end of refurbish and upgrade in this area. The sides will be roughcast with the entrance and exit week 10: - areas having the water/ice damaged ground slabs replaced.

MHA’s IT policy on the provision of “Internet Service in Communal areas” has changed and this will now ONLY be available in “Communal Sitting Room and Lounge” areas. Should you require Internet Access within your own apartment this should be arranged direct via your own Telephone provider.

As always if you are aware of any item around the Estate which appears hazardous or dangerous, please let me know via Customer Service and I shall investigate. Ground Floor Balcony Renewal Regards

Ground Floor Corridor Bedroom David McGrane Estate and Amenities Support Manager Page | 3

trip to could be included in the News from Customer Services timetable as well as a morning trip to . To

accommodate these requests, our bus will visit Customer Services Team Photo Lanark in the morning and Lesmahagow in the I am sure that most of you will be familiar with afternoon, on the first Monday of every month, our 3 Customer Services Assistants who are commencing on Monday 4th April. based in the Village Centre Reception; Terrie Pate, Amanda O’Donnell and Barbara Dalzell. For For those of you who want to have a swim at those who have not met them in person, I would Lanark Swimming Pool, this will still be possible like to share their photos with you. in the morning.

I have included an updated Bus Timetable at the back of the Village Voice.

Short Mat Bowls Games during April and May will take place in the Douglas Suite at 2pm–4pm, unless otherwise

stated, on: -

Terrie Amanda Barbara th th th April:- Fri 8 , Tue 12 (10am-12 noon), Tue 19 , For those who I have not had the opportunity to Tue 26th, meet, I have included a photo of myself at the rd th th May:- Tue 3 , Tue 10 (10am-12 noon), Tue 17 , end of this article. th st Tue 24 , Tue 31

Hearing Aid Batteries Players will either need to wear flat shoes (not Can I please remind anyone who has a NHS trainers with ridged soles) or carpet slippers. Hearing Aid that Customer Services hold a stock Stockinged feet is also acceptable. Everyone is of batteries at the Village Centre Reception for welcome, from complete beginners to residents across the village to access. This experienced players. service means that you do not need to travel to Stonehouse Hospital to pick up Hearing Aid Swimming at Lanark Swimming Pool batteries. When you require batteries, please Monday Afternoons/Morning bring your yellow hearing book to Reception Last month I intimated that our bus would drop where we will issue you with a supply of off at Lanark Swimming Pool at approximately batteries and update your book to record that 1.50pm, picking up again at approximately you have received them. 3.00pm every Monday. In a change to this, staring on Monday 4th April, the bus will visit Suggestion Box Lanark and the Swimming Pool in the morning on A suggestion box has been placed in reception the first Monday of the month, between for you to post any suggestions that you may 10.30am and 12 noon. (Please note that there have for Independent Living Saturday bus outings will be classes taking place at one end of the pool or for Activities, Groups, Classes or Events that but there is still ample space for casual you would like us to consider. Please feel free to swimming; the floor at the deep end will be st complete the slips provided and place them in raised). The cost of a pool session from 1 April the box at your leisure. All suggestions will be is £1.85. Please book a seat on the bus with gratefully received. Customer Services in the usual manner.

Change to Bus Timetable Yoga Class At the moment our bus visits Lesmahagow and Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses Tesco every morning; Monday to Friday. on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost However some of you have asked if an afternoon physical and mental wellbeing. The main Page | 4 components of yoga are postures and breathing. to Auchlochan to give a talk which will focus on If anyone is interested in attending a Yoga class the work of the Woodland Trust in Scotland. at Auchlochan, we have sourced a teacher who The Trust inspire people to visit woods, plant would provide weekly 90 minute classes at a cost trees, treasure wildlife, and enjoy the of £6.00 per person. Please register with overwhelming benefits that woods and trees Customer Services and if there is enough interest offer to our landscape and lives. we will make arrangements for classes to commence. I will provide an update next month. Join Customer Services to hear all about the vital work of the Trust, from improving damaged and Bridge Club neglected woodlands to the creation of If you would like to join our Bridge Club please woodland starting from bare hillside. register your interest with Customer Services. Refreshments will be served. Donations to Woodland Trust welcome.

Computer Tuition Classes Annual Fundraising Cycle ‘Friend of Auchlochan’, Glen Woodland, will be Wednesday 15th June delivering a 6 week block of Basic Computer Tuition Classes, commencing on Tuesday 5th It’s almost time for me to dig my April, 2pm-3pm, and for the following 5 Tuesdays bike out from the back of the afterwards. The classes will be held in the garage and dust it down in Courtyard using the communal computer which preparation for our annual staff is located above the Courtyard quiet library area. fundraising cycle! As with last year we are encouraging staff from all areas to If you have an interest in computers and feel that take part to raise funds for our Residents & you would benefit from some beginners tuition, Activities Amenity Accounts. So far along with please book a place via Customer Services as the usual suspects; myself, George Cairns and soon as possible as spaces are limited to a David McGrane, we are pleased to welcome new maximum of 6 people. recruits; Phil Nightingale, MHA Estates Manager and Christine Reeson, Homecare Co-ordinator. Please be advised that Glen cannot repair computers or fix any issues that you are We will be cycling approximately 42 miles, along experiencing with your computer, internet etc. the Clyde & Forth Canal, from Bishopbriggs, passing the Falkirk Wheel all the way to the Brooks Fashion Show magnificent Kelpies and back again. If you are & Clothing and Accessory Sale interested in taking part, please contact Wendy on Ext. 1204 or speak to George in Bankhouse for Monday 4th April, 2pm – 4pm further information. Customer Services are bringing Spring/Summer fashion to Auchlochan by hosting our very own Please look out for our sponsor sheets around fashion show in association with Brooks of the village and in Bankhouse; we would be very Lanark. Brooks will be showing a selection of grateful for your support. ladies and menswear with the opportunity for you to purchase the clothes and a range of shoes On behalf of the Customer Services Team, and accessories at great prices after the show. Pack those winter woollies away and treat yourself to something new for spring! Enjoy a 10% discount in the Bistro after the show.

Woodland Trust Talk Friday 22nd April, 2pm in the Douglas Suite A volunteer from the Woodland Trust; the UK's Wendy Wilson leading woodland conservation charity, is coming Customer Services Manager Page | 5

One Day Together in Scotland Event

MHA held a significant Day Conference on Monday 29th February at Westminster Central Hall, London to attract an audience of health and social care policy makers, influencers, researchers and practitioners, as well as older people themselves.

The Conference explored the contemporary issues of importance to the growing numbers of older people, how we prepare for and experience later life, and the role we all have in creating a more age-friendly society.

MHA used the Conference to champion our cause of creating communities that care, to recruit new supporters, advocates and friends, and to support our strategy to be one of the top three charities for shaping policy and being the voice of older people.

To mark the occasion in Scotland, many of our residents and tenants from our MHA Schemes in and Glasgow joined together in the Douglas Suite to enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment and each others company.

Lesley McNeill opened the event by welcoming everyone to Auchlochan and explaining the purpose of the event before handing over to Cliff Jackson, our compere for the afternoon.

Proceedings commenced with everyone tucking into tea and cakes whilst listening to the soothing sound of the Harp, played by Ruby Marshall.

At 3pm the tempo changed somewhat when local singer and musical entertainer, Johnny Weir took centre stage and it wasn’t long before everyone was clapping and singing along, with some guests I’m sure you will all recognise even enjoying a dance, to a fantastic set of popular the lady in this photo. How songs. many of you knew she had 2 left feet though?

Lesley is dancing with Mr Billy Robertson from St Andrews Court, East Kilbride.

A great afternoon was had by all.

Thank you to our musical entertainers and to Elior for providing the delicious cakes.

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News from Homecare General Assistant which means she will have more time to work with the residents. I hope everyone had a lovely Easter. Each month I will post pictures of the March saw the first of the open mornings in Homecare staff to allow everyone to get to the Courtyard lounge. I was able to meet with know them. This month we have: the 6 residents who attended and had a chat with them. It was a good opportunity for me to speak with residents in a welcoming environment and to be able to chat and offer help and advice where required. The next open afternoon will be on the 19th of April at 2pm. This is open to all residents and not just those in receipt of a Homecare package. Ann Robertson Hayley Grierson

This month I invited some residents to attend to help me complete my annual self assessment of the Homecare service. I would like to thank the residents who attended and participated in the self assessment. One thing that was highlighted is that many residents Lisa Yuill Karen McCusker didn’t know about the compliments, comments and complaints cards that we have available. These cards are for residents to complete and submit to the quality department in Derby with prepaid postage and can be found on the information rack outside the residents lounge in block 3 of the Courtyard. These cards can be Jane Simpson Janice Clarkson used in relation to care or any other aspects of the service you receive from MHA. In addition Kind Regards to this any compliments, comments or complaints received through Homecare are added to the Compliments, Comments and Complaints register and submitted to the quality team on a monthly basis.

Homecare Staff: We now have two new Team Leaders in place. Welcome to Wendy Love who joins us from Christine Reeson Lower Johnshill. Housing with Care Co-ordinator

We would also like to welcome Carrie Elliot, Amy Watson and Hollie Bethel to the Homecare team.

I would like to say a great big thank you to Jane

Weir for all her help as Team Leader now that Please remember that the Homecare Team are she has officially stepped down. Jane will here to assist in anyway we can. continue to work within Homecare as a Please call us on 01555 893571 or 893592 Page | 7

th News from Bankhouse Bankhouse will be celebrating the Queen’s 90 Birthday with one of our residents being HRH Hello friends for the day. She will host a large tea party on the 21st April with evening entertainment Spring has finally arrived with the bulbs up in provided at 6.30pm by ‘Geeza Break the gardens and the arrival of lambs in the fields. Productions’ of ‘Memories of the Musicals’

We would like to thank all the families and We are in the process of making a calming friends who came along to support us at the sensory room at the bottom of the large Mothers Day Tea and Coffee afternoon. We lounge. It will have soothing music, lights, etc hope you all enjoyed the cakes, scones and chat with your relatives. We raised the grand where residents can sit and relax in the Quiet sum of £118.00 which will go to our Residents room. Amenity Fund. Along with other MHA Auchlochan staff, The residents all enjoyed the recent George Cairns will be doing a sponsored bike entertainment provided by Michael Patterson. th It was especially nice to see and hear Mrs run of 42 miles on 15 June. The sponsor Helen Gow singing along with Michael; she had forms will be in the home shortly if anyone a great time. would like to donate/sponsor the staff. All funds raised will be split between our Residents/Activities Amenities Funds.

Our thoughts and prayers go the family and friends of Mr James Lang and Mr Duncan Whyte who sadly passed away last month. The result of the Easter raffle which is to be drawn on 25th March will be intimated in the next issue.

The residents are already asking when he is Birthday wishes go to Mary Smiley, Fred coming back for his next visit. This will be on Mahoney, Isabella McAllen, Joe McAleer and th the 20 May at 2.30pm. Helen Gow. Many happy returns when it

comes.

For information: - Chiropodist – next visit is on Tue 5th Apr. Pampering Service – next visit Tue 12th Apr. Hairdresser – visits every Wednesday

Kind regards Libby Henderson - Social Care Facilitator

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News from Lower Johnshill We congratulate several staff members who have recently completed their SVQ 2 Training The month of April has arrived and it is lovely Qualification. to see the daffodils in full bloom and other shoots of growth in the gardens coming to life. Some staff are seeking sponsorship for an upcoming Fundraising Event. The monies I take this opportunity to congratulate raised will be donated to our Residents Margaret Patrick, Care Assistant, who has Amenity Fund. The fund allows us to provide received her 15 years long service award for additional activities outwith the Home. Ten Pin her employment at Auchlochan. Bowling has been suggested as a possible Congratulations Margaret. future outing which I’m sure would be a fun day out. We are currently in the process of a recruitment drive and we thank residents for We say farewell to Helen McCrae who has their participation in the selection process. We been the Administrator for the Home for have successfully recruited 2 Registered Nurses several years. Helen has decided that she rd who will commence employment on 3 April. wishes to enjoy retirement to allow her more We look forward to welcoming Susan and time to do the things that she wants to do. For Penny to Lower Johnshill. Both ladies have those who do not know, Helen enjoys art and assisted in the home previously so they will be she is a very talented painter. She will be familiar faces to many residents. missed by all within the Home and by families who continue to ask for her. We wish Helen We are also about to commence interviews for well and good health to enjoy whatever she both Supervisors and Senior Care Staff within chooses to do. the Residential area for the home; we as an organisation are keen to encourage existing Several residents will celebrate birthdays staff in their continual development to apply during April. We wish all a very happy birthday for these posts. when it arrives.

We wish Wendy Love every success in her new Kind regards role as Team Leader within Homecare at Margo Brunton Auchlochan. Wendy will be missed by the Home Manager residents within Lower Johnshill as well as by family members. We are sure you will thrive in your new post Wendy.

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Chaplaincy Chatter From Matthew 28 the women had seen him

Dear Friends, die, and seen him buried. Now they are the first to be told of his resurrection. Their th response offers a pattern for all disciples. On Wednesday 9 March we held our first afternoon service of worship in the new residents’ lounge in Courtyard. The 18 It begins with awe. They are told not to be residents who attended enjoyed the fellowship afraid, but are inevitably awestruck. There are and agreed that we should hold such services no grounds for taking the resurrection for on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month. granted. It is a sovereign act of awesome April’s services will be held on Wednesday 6th power. Jesus is raised, never to die again. April and Wednesday 20th April, both at 2.30 Death is no longer the end. A new order has p.m. These gatherings last just half an hour, begun in which all authority belongs to the are open to all Auchlochan residents and we risen Lord. Awe leads to joy, because they are look forward to seeing you there. reunited with Jesus for ever. A relationship has been restored, which nothing and no one, not Now over to Ian White, chaplain to Lower even death, can break. At the heart of Johnshill… Christian discipleship lies this relationship with Christ. Every blessing, Cliff. Joy turns to worship. The women worshipped him as soon as they saw him, and so did the It seems to have men (though some hesitated). Worship is not a been such a long run duty: it is the instinctive response of those who up to Easter with so meet Jesus. There could be no further doubts many preparations about his identity and only one response to his needing to be made person. Awe and joy: trembling at his majesty but now that after and delight at his intimate presence meet in the palm branches the best of Christian worship. The final have been strewn, the cross stands empty and response is mission: the disciples are the stone rolled away, the chocolate eggs have recommissioned to tell others and make new been all eaten and the holidays over, so, for disciples. Whatever other stories may many Easter is just a memory. circulate. Christians are to proclaim the fact of the resurrection and the possibility of The resurrection of Jesus is cause for great becoming disciples of Christ. They are to call celebration on Easter Sunday. However, it's in men and women to follow, just as they had the days after Easter that Jesus appeared to His been called. There is no distinction between disciples and gave the church its mission. At conversion and discipleship. They are to make Easter we are reminded by Jesus of our disciples in the same way that Jesus had made mission… the great commission. Jesus gives us them disciples. Most wonderful of all, they are a wonderful after Easter picture of what he not to do this for Jesus, but with Jesus – to the wants his followers to do and that is based on end of the age. the readings from Matthew 28:16-20, Luke 24:36-40, John 20:19-30, Acts 1:7-10. While As we can see Easter is not for a day or a week- this Easter is still fresh on our memories let us end; it’s for all year, every year, because we just think for a moment what happened to the can live in the light of Easter, for Jesus paid the Characters that were present after Jesus price that we can live in his light proclaiming resurrection. the risen Christ who lives in all who believe. Page | 10

At Lower Johnshill we are still providing for our A tribute to Crear McCartney residents which is open to all residents in

Auchlochan, the opportunities for Spiritual care On the morning of and development through the Chaplaincy Team Friday 4th March family and our faithful volunteers. and friends gathered in the old kirk at Biggar to We provide weekly worship every Wednesday say farewell to a humble afternoon at 2.30pm using a wide variety of gentleman and one of speakers. Scotland’s greatest stained glass artists. On the first Sunday of the Month we hold an afternoon Service in LJH at 2.30pm and Crear McCartney was th Communion is held on the last Wednesday of born on 4 February, the Month in the rear dining room at 2.30pm. 1931 and was educated Walter & Ishbel Stevenson play and sing to us at Biggar High School once a quarter and their next visit is on before joining the Royal Air Force. From 1950 to Wednesday 1st June at 3.45pm in the main 1955 he studied at the Glasgow School of Art and lounge, and we have a lively discussion group gained his Diploma in Design (Stained Glass). once a fortnight at 11.00am. Leaving college, he moved to Morayshire to manage the stained glass studio at Pluscarden Abbey, where he felt the call to teach. He May you have a great spring here in completed his teacher training in Aberdeen Auchlochan as all our scenery around us takes before becoming an art teacher at Elgin Academy on it’s beauty. and then returning to to take

up the post of principal art teacher at Every blessing. Lesmahagow High School, where he stayed for 27 years. Ian White Home Chaplain LJH In 1988 he left his post and became a freelance stained glass artist, completing over 100

commissions across Europe and the United States of America. Among his most famous works are the 850th anniversary window of St.Magnus Cathedral in Orkney, Dornoch Cathedral, the south transept window in Linlithgow, Stirling Castle great hall and the

R.A.F. memorial window at St. Eval, Cornwall. Communion Services The window shown here graces the aisle of Biggar kirk and the photograph was taken on the The next monthly Communion Services, which day of his funeral. Crear will be missed, but his are open to all Auchlochan residents, are being works remain to inspire future generations. held at: -

th In his own words: ‘Each (church) building is a The Retreat – Mon. 11 April at 3pm small Art Gallery and, as in all Art Galleries, Lower Johnshill – Wed. 27th April at 2.30pm works by other artists will demand attention and encourage further rewarding study. You will find Bankhouse – Thu. 28th April at 2.15pm other artists who, like me, fell victim to the wonder of God's light filtered through a web of lead and coloured glass.’ Page | 11

News from Often, co-operation is necessary with a variety of other

agencies, charities

SORRY …… I got it and local authorities COMPLETELY wrong to ensure that those in dire need can last month ! achieve a reasonable quality of life, though Believing him to be a former SAFA (Scottish Amateur Football Association) referee, I had not one of luxury by any standard. announced in last month’s Village Voice that the guest speaker for our March meeting, Mr. David It is all too easy for us to forget that every armed Pirrett, would be talking about football matters. conflict results in often horrendous physical or But only shortly before opening that meeting did I mental injuries, if not both. Inevitably, there can discover that he was not, and would not ! be extremely severe, long-term effects on sufferers, male and female, and probably far- In fact, David is a retired lawyer and former reaching consequences for their families. “Territorial”, but now a home-based volunteer Case Officer with the Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Naturally, confidentiality prevents mention of Airmen’s Families Association (known to untold specific cases but, in 2014 (2015 figures are likely thousands, with affection, as plain “SSAFA”), the to be even higher), SSAFA supported over 57,000 130-year-old Armed Forces charity. I doubt whether anyone with U.K. armed forces service, people through their charitable services, of which past or present, does not at least know of them. more than 35,000 are in local communities, and a further 23,000 through other specialist services. I often had personal experience of liaising with them, on behalf of past servicemen, as part of For those looking for a truly worthy cause to administrative duties during my Army years, so can support, SSAFA has to be a strong contender. vouch for their effective, caring approach. Contact details can be found in your telephone directory. As David explained, SSAFA was founded in 1886 as the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association to Looking forward, on 21st April at 10 a.m. in the provide support for severely injured or destitute Atrium as usual, we are due to have a talk by Mr. members of those services - the mental effects of John Yellowlees, Communications Manager of hostilities simply were not recognised in those ScotRail. Hopefully, he will outline his company’s days. It was only in 1919, following the formation improvement plans, and discuss the current of what had been the Royal Flying Corps during the disruption for travellers resulting from the Queen Great War, that the title changed to include what Street station upgrading. became the Royal Air Force.

SSAFA’s function has not changed greatly since its I’m again looking forward to welcoming visitors, inception: the charity still provides lifelong support group members and their guests to what has the to men and women who have ever served in the potential to be another lively session. British Army, the Royal Navy or the Royal Air Force, and their families. In the meantime,my regards to everyone as always. They are involved with serving personnel, veterans and their families every day, providing practical, Jim Neilson emotional and, usually, financial support tailored to individual needs, co-ordinated by their network of trained volunteers and professional staff through over 90 branches across the U.K. Page | 12

News From

On Thursday the 17th of March we held a very successful birdwatching fundraiser in Marion’s conservatory. We had lots of home baking donated to us which went down very well with tea and coffee.

It was a very enjoyable day and we would like to thank everyone for their very generous donations.

On Wednesday the 20th April we will be showing an André Rieu Concert in the Douglas Suite. Come along and be transported to the wonderful city of Maastricht and watch an amazing concert with André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra.

Music to include Seventy-six trombones, Ave The morning and afternoon sessions proved to Maria, Pachelbel’s Canon and Memory. Kimmy be very well attended with over 50 people Skota, the fantastic South African soloist sings joining us on the day. My African Dream. The Bloemfontein Children’s Choir and children from the Haut Bay Music Project provide a real South African atmosphere. There will be no charge for this event although there will be a donations jar and refreshments will be served.

A date for your diary: - We are holding an afternoon tea party in the Douglas Suite corridor on Friday the 10th June in celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th Birthday. Tickets available in May priced at £10.00 each. We saw Coal Tits, Blue Tits, Great tits, Chaffinches, Goldfinches, Siskins, Collared Contact details: -

Doves and the odd Wood Pidgeon. At the end Maureen 01555 890815 of the morning session just after most people [email protected] had gone, the Sparrowhawk swooped past the window scattering all the birds in every Marion 01555 896926 [email protected] direction!

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Film Afternoon News from Elior

On the 28th March, Easter Monday, we watched Easter Raffle Congratulations to Mrs Margaret Donaldson “Letters to Juliet”, an enjoyable romantic story on winning the Easter Hamper. filmed on location in Italy.

We did not let the fact that it was Easter Monday go by; we celebrated with Easter treats and a free draw for an Easter Egg and special chocolates.

On the 25th April, April already, we shall be showing “The Lady in The Van”. Based on a true story of Miss Shepherd played by Dame Maggie Smith, who temporarily parks her van in Alan Margaret and her prize, pictured alongside Mandy Bennetts, Alex Jennings, driveway and proceeds Strachan, Manager to live there for 15years. What begins as a begrudged favour becomes a relationship that Welcome to the Team Mandy will change both their lives. Elior would like to welcome Mandy into the team as Site Manager. Mandy has The film shows are on the 4th Monday of each worked within the catering industry for the last 28 years. month, starting at 2pm in the Atrium of the

Retreat. Newcomers are always made welcome. She is looking forward to meeting all the We finish with a cup of tea/coffee which gives us residents and customers with any the opportunity for a chat and to meet up with questions or suggestions. old friends and hopefully to make new ones. Invitation to ‘Best of British Day’ Elior Uk are inviting all Auchlochan If you do have any requests or suggestions for Residents to a complimentary meal on th films that you would like to see please let us Thursday 14 April. The meal will be served between 1pm and 6pm. Please call know and we shall do our best to find them or if the Bistro on 01555 668209 to make a we have shown a film in the past and you missed reservation. The Menu is on page 23. it or would like to see it again you would be welcome to borrow the DVD. Special Offer Our Special Offer of a Cake and Coffee for Audrey Groom £1.50 continues throughout April. Served 2 The Retreat all day.

Chippy Night Our next Chippy Night takes place on Friday 1st April from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Sit in or take away. You will find our Chippy Menu on page 22.

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Crabbit Old Lady On Leaving Derbyshire a poem by Michael Thomas You may have read the poem that was published in last months Village Voice, entitled ‘Crabbit Old Lady’; I miss the line of distant hills a poem written in 1966 by Phyllis McCormack, then which over-frames the bustling town, working as a nurse in Sunnyside Hospital, Montrose. the narrow, steeply winding lane The poem is written in the voice of an old woman in a from moor to meadow leading down. nursing home who is reflecting upon her life. I miss the dark misshapen walls

which mark the margins of the land The poem appeared in the Nursing Mirror in and offer shield to winter sheep December 1972 without attribution. Phyllis ‘til thaw allows a feeding hand. McCormack explained in a letter to the journal that she wrote the poem in 1966 for her hospital I miss the chill of caverns’ depths newsletter. the seeping walls and slippery stone where some profess to hear the picks After doing a little research into the poem, Maureen as miners seek the jewel Bleu Jeaune.

Douglas, the Cottages, came across this “Nurses I miss the symmetry of Thorpe Cloud reply”. sweeping to meet the stepping stones, Dove’s waters pure, an anglers joy, but Izaak would not like the phones! A Nurses Reply by Liz Hogben I miss the walk to watch the match so cold and numb in thin-soled shoes, What do we see, you ask, what do we see? with Penalty given, heart in mouth, Yes, we are thinking when looking at thee Banks saves again; come on the Blues. We may seem to be hard when we hurry and fuss But there's many of you and too few of us. I miss the sudden brightening sky which lights the moor beyond the ridge, We would like far more time to sit by you and talk the moor which many times I crossed, To bath you and feed you and help you to walk the moor which leads to Stoney Edge. To hear of your lives and the things you have done I miss the year-on-yearly trips Your childhood, your husband, your daughter, your son. to view the petals set in clay,

Eyam’s brave stand still speaks to me But time is against us, there's too much to do - and many others, I daresay. Patients too many and nurses too few We grieve when we see you so sad and alone I miss the river’s soothing glide With nobody near you, no friends of your own the place where as a boy I fished, We feel all your pain, and know of your fear bent pin in Amber’s deepest pools That nobody cares now your end is so near. with not a catch, but how I wished.

But nurses are people with feelings as well I miss the hard-to-follow path And when we're together you'll often hear tell with gorse and thicket, push and shove Of the dearest old Gran in the very end bed to reach the peaceful yielding sward, And the lovely old Dad and the things that he said custodian of our youthful love.

We speak with compassion and love, and feel sad I miss the climb from valley floor When we think of your lives and the joy that you've had. the roadway flanked by birch and pine along the shadow of the ridge When the time has arrived for you to depart which hangs above the perfect line. You leave us behind with an ache in our heart When you sleep the long sleep, no more worry or care All this I miss and always will There are other people, and we must be there ‘til reason leaves this fragile mind So please understand if we hurry and fuss and memories fade, as memories must, There are many of you and too few of us!! when Then and Now become entwined.

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The Notice Board

St Johns Lunch Club

Memory Café

1pm – 3pm For those of you who attend the Tuesday 12th April Lunch Club at St Johns in in the Douglas Suite Blackwood, the next lunch will take place on Are you worried about your memory? Thursday 28th April. Do you have dementia? Do you care for someone with dementia? An opportunity to come together to chat/share over Come along to this free drop in café where you some lunch.

can meet people and access information and Transport is provided. Please support. The café will be on the 2nd Tuesday of contact Customer Services for every month in the Douglas Suite. details.

FILM AFTERNOON

OFFERED

THREE The next forthcoming attraction will be: - WHEELER “The Lady in the Van ” WALKER See page 14 for further details.

Monday 25th April OFFERED FREE.

at 2pm in the Retreat Atrium. Please enquire at Reception.

A film will be shown on the fourth Monday of each month. Everyone welcome.

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The Notice Board

Fashion Show in association with Brooks of Lanark Monday 4th April, 2pm – 4pm in The Douglas Suite

With a well deserved reputation for selling only the best quality brands, Brooks will be showing a selection of ladies and men’s Spring/Summer fashions with the opportunity for you to purchase the clothes and a range of shoes and accessories at great prices after the show.

Join us for a fabulous afternoon of fashion.

Why not visit the Bistro after the show and receive a 10% discount.

Friday 22nd April 2pm in the Douglas Suite

A volunteer from the Woodland Trust; the UK's leading woodland conservation charity, will be coming to Auchlochan to give a talk, focusing on the work of the Woodland Trust in Scotland. The Trust inspire people to visit woods, plant trees, treasure wildlife, and enjoy the overwhelming benefits that woods and trees offer to our landscape and lives.

Join Customer Services to hear all about the vital work of the Trust. Refreshments served. Donations to Woodland Trust welcome.

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The Notice Board

Christmas Card Competition

‘Winter Wonderland’ by Dorothy Roy (a winner in 2013)

Calling all photographers!

It’s not too late to submit photographs for our Christmas Card Competition. The deadline is 29th April and we are hoping for some stunning images of Auchlochan in winter.

The competition is open to all residents and the rules are available from main reception, so pick up your copy and email your photographs as soon as you can. Thank you.

SINGING TOGETHER

for singers

& non-singers

Hello everyone

Singing Together is still in the planning but I hope to be able to confirm details in next month’s Village Voice. Watch this space! In the meantime if you are interested in joining the singing group, please get in touch.

Jean Love

Phone 01555 895872 Email: [email protected] 35 The Cottages

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The Notice Board

Dennis and Sybil Steele would like to express their grateful thanks to the many friends and neighbours who sent them Cards, messages and flowers and other gifts, on the occasion of their 65th Wedding Anniversary on 9th March. Also for the lovely Basket of Flowers sent from the from the Management and Staff of MHA Auchlochan. It was also a great privilege to receive a congratulatory message from Her Majesty The Queen, together with a beautiful photograph. For all the kindness and friendship shown, they are deeply thankful !

Computer Tuition

Classes

‘Friend of Auchlochan’, Glen Woodland, will be delivering a 6 week block of Basic Computer Tuition Classes, commencing on Tuesday 5th April.

If you have an interest in computers and feel that you would benefit from some beginners tuition, please book a place via Customer Services as soon as possible as spaces are limited to a maximum of 6 people.

Please be advised that Glen cannot repair computers or fix any issues that you are experiencing with your computer, internet etc.

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The Notice Board

Take

‘A Walk on the Wild Side’ With

The Conservation Volunteers

Monday, April 18th 2.00 p.m.

Meet at Main Reception

Every day TCV works across the UK to create healthier and happier communities for everyone - communities where their activities have a lasting impact on people’s health, prospects and outdoor places.

We are delighted that TCV has agreed to visit Auchlochan this month to offer residents a free taster session based on Citizen Science (Wildlife recording) and involving a short walk in our grounds. n.b. a wet weather alternative will be provided.

The session will be led by Lucy Graham (Green Health in Later Life) and Jess Owen (Citizen Science) and we hope that this will be the first of many such events and activities arranged in partnership with TCV.

If you love the great outdoors and wish to add to your knowledge and experience, or are simply curious about what you may discover, please come along. Residents are invited to register for their free place by contacting Customer Services.

We look forward to joining you for what promises to be a rewarding and inspiring experience.

Lesley McNeill & Cliff Jackson

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The Notice Board

André Rieu A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Wednesday 20th April at 2pm in the Douglas Suite

Come along and be transported to the wonderful city of Maastricht and watch an amazing concert with André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra. After a successful South African tour in 2010, the Vrijthof

concerts were all about Africa that year. André invited the South African soloists from the tour to take part in his summer’s concerts: the fantastic young soprano Kimmy Skota from Cape Town, the Bloemfontein Children’s Choir and the children from the Hout Bay Music Project provided a real South African atmosphere.

Refreshments will be served No Charge but Donations please

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The Notice Board

The Bistro Auchlochan Garden Village

Special Offer Every day throughout April

Cake & a Coffee for £1.50

CHIPPY THE NIGHT BISTRO

FRIDAY 1ST APRIL (FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH) OPEN FROM 5.30PM TO 7.30PM. SIT IN OR TAKEAWAY

SINGLE SUPPER A BIT ON THE SIDE FRESH FISH £3.00 £5.00 CHIPS – REGULAR £2.00 SPECIAL FISH £3.00 £5.00 CHIPS – LARGE £2.90 SAUSAGE £3.00 £4.00 FRITTERS – EACH £0.45 CHICKEN LEG £2.50 £4.50 FRITTERS – FOR 5 £2.00 CHICKEN BREAST £2.90 £4.90 PICKLED EGG £0.40 PIZZA £3.00 £5.00 PICKLED ONIONS £0.30 PIZZA HALF £1.50 £3.50 MUSHY PEAS £0.50 MINCE PIE £2.10 £4.10 CAMPBELL’S HAGGIS £2.30 £4.30 CAMPBELLS BLACK £2.30 £4.30 PUDDING

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BEST OF BRITISH DAY

THURSDAY 14TH APRIL AUCHLOCHAN VILLAGE BISTRO

Cream of Tomato Soup With Crusty bread and butter

Seafood Cocktail With Marie Rose sauce, and lemon

****

Giant Yorkie Pudding Filled with Grilled Cumberland Sausages, creamy mash & savoy cabbage

Breast of Chicken Tikka Masala Served with a bed of steamed rice

Cheesy Leek & Potato Pie Served with a selection of fresh vegetables

****

Toffee Apple Crumble Served with custard

Strawberry Trifle

**** Please call the Bistro on 01555 668209 for reservations

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Independent Living Outings – April/early May

The bus will commence pick-ups at 10.30am for leaving the Village at 10.45am unless otherwise stated.

Date of Bookings Cost of Trip - taken Ticket/Entry Saturday from Details if Applicable 2nd Apr 28th Mar Moffat – Moffat is an attractive former coaching town with modern amenities. n/a Moffat offers specialist shops, cafes, hotels, beautiful parks and great walks.

9th Apr 4th Apr Exhibition at North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre followed by Toby Carvery for Exhibition is Lunch - ‘Everybody’s Darling - the First World War Nurse’ is a new exhibition at Free Entry North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre in Motherwell. We know millions of men saw action in the trenches, or behind the lines but what about the women of Carvery - the First World War? Explore this touring exhibition of objects, postcards and £5.99 illustrations to find out more about these brave and often forgotten women.

Afterwards visit Toby Carvery, Strathclyde Park to enjoy their Famous Four Roast Carvery lunch for £5.99. (Lighter meals also available).

16th Apr 11th Apr McKinnon Mills Retail & Factory Outlet - Mackinnon Mills has a fantastic n/a selection of clothing for all the family, including Peacocks, James Pringle, Isle, Roma Originals and many more, plus an extensive Pavers shoe shop. Don’t miss the large golf department and Ponden Home interiors shop. This is a unique shopping environment with everything from tropical fish, garden sheds, textiles and a restaurant.

23rd Apr 18th Apr Dobbies Garden Centre, Braehead and Braehead Shopping Centre – the bus n/a will drop off at both venues (the shopping centre first then Dobbies where it will wait until the return journey).

30th Apr 25th Apr Biggar - Biggar's main street still reflects its past as a market town and is home Fish Tea from to a variety of independent shops, including an award-winning grocer, a famous £7.20 ice-cream and chocolate shop, an award-winning fish and chip shop and some wonderful museums, including the Biggar & Upper Clydesdale Museum (£4 entry). After you have enjoyed a browse round the shops or Museum, enjoy a traditional fish tea in the Townhead Café.

7th May 2nd May Greenbank Garden & Holmwood House – Located in the south side of Glasgow, Free with a Greenbank Garden is a tranquil celebration of the gardener’s art. Greenbank National House and its walled garden were built for Robert Allason in the 1760s. In 1962, Trust Card the estate was purchased by William Blyth, who set to work transforming the (cards will be garden into the design you see today. There is an NTS gift shop and plant sales supplied by and a tearoom which serves tea/coffee, cold drinks and a selection of cakes & Reception) biscuits.

Afterwards visit Holmwood lying just a few miles from the centre of Glasgow, this unique villa has been described as Alexander 'Greek' Thomson's finest domestic design. It was built in 1857-8 for James Couper, a local businessman. Many rooms are richly ornamented in wood, plaster and marble. Outside there are attractive riverside grounds to explore and a small kitchen garden. There is a shop in the original kitchen and pantry of the house and teas and coffees are served in the kitchen courtyard.

Please contact Customer Services on 01555 893592 to book a seat. Please note that due to high demand, only a single trip can be booked at any one time and bookings for each outing may only be made in the week prior to that trip. If you have a suggestion for future outings, please contact Customer Services. ⋄ ⋄ ⋄

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Auchlochan interest Groups & Events Calendars

Regular Interest Groups, Activities and Classes Day/ Frequency Time Venue Event / Activity Details & Contact Monday 10am – 12 noon The Craft Suite Craft & Chatter A group learning specific crafts (Easter eggs, Christmas Weekly (Village Centre) Group decorations, Cards etc). Contact: Grethe Dillon on Tel: 894677. Monday 2pm – 4pm The Craft Suite Art Club This is a group of amateurs who bring their own materials and help Weekly (Village Centre) each other. Tea and biscuits are provided. Contact Mrs Gorrie on Tel: 895076. Monday Afternoon or Lanark Swimming Swimming Swimming session at Lanark Swimming Pool. £1.85 per session. Weekly morning Pool Monday afternoon or morning on first Monday of month. Monday 2pm – 4pm The Village Centre Book Swap Book Swap afternoons will take place quarterly on the first Quarterly Reception Afternoon Monday of March, June, September & December. Monday 2pm The Retreat Film Afternoon A film will be shown on the 4th Monday of each month. Everyone Monthly Atrium welcome. Tuesday 2pm – 4pm The Retreat Art Group All welcome from amateurs needing advice to true masters of their Weekly Atrium craft. Contact Tim Lucey Tel: 895405 Tuesday 1pm – 3pm The Douglas Suite Memory Cafe Are you worried about your memory? Do you have dementia? Do you Monthly 2nd Tue of month care for someone with dementia? Come along to this free drop in café where you can meet people and access information and support. Tuesday 2pm – 4pm or The Douglas Suite Short Mat Bowls Complete beginners or experienced players; everyone welcome. 10am – 12 noon 2nd Tue of month Tuesday 2pm – 3pm The Courtyard Computer Tuition New – Computer Tuition Class (6 week block). Please enquire at Class Customer Services for further information and to check availability. Wednesday 10.30am The Courtyard Tai Chi Class Please book a place via Customer Services. Weekly Lounge Wednesday 2pm Croquet Lawn Croquet 2pm weekly as required. Contact Lesley Van Vilet or Anne Prees Weekly (Seasonal) for information. Tel: 892254 Friday 2pm – 4pm The Retreat Knitting Group Contact Ann Bernard on Tel: 892234 for further information. Weekly Atrium Friday 2pm – 4pm The Courtyard Games Afternoon Join friends or come along and make new one at our weekly games Weekly Lounge afternoon. A wide selection of popular games available including Scrabble, Dominoes, Boggle, Cluedo, Connect 4, Monopoly, Card Games, Jigsaws and more. Fortnightly Various Various Bridge Club Meet fortnightly to enjoy a game of Bridge. If you are interested in joining the group, please speak to Customer Services. Friday 7pm The Retreat Games Group If you enjoy playing cards and/or board games come and join a Weekly Atrium mixed group of people every Friday evening. Contact Audrey Groom on Tel: 445414 for further information. Thursday 10am The Retreat Auchlochan Men’s For further information on the Men’s Social Group, please contact Monthly Atrium Social Group the group chairman, Mr Jim Neilson on Tel: 01555 445402. (3rd Thu)

Additional events which are taking place around Auchlochan throughout April Date Time Venue Event / Activity Details Monday 2pm The Douglas Suite Brooks Fashion Show See Customer Services News on page 5 for details. 4th April & Clothing Sale Thursday 1pm – The Bistro Best of British Day Elior UK invite all Auchlochan Residents to a 14th April 6pm complimentary meal. See page 14 for full details. Monday 2pm Leaving from TCV – ‘A Walk on the See The Notice Board on page 20 for details. 18th April Reception Wild Side’ Wednesday 2pm The Douglas Suite Andre Rieu Concert See News from Auchlochan Community Entertainment 20th April on page 13 for details. Friday 2pm The Douglas Suite Woodland Trust Talk See Customer Services News on page 5 for details. 22nd April

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Chaplaincy Events Calendar – April 2016 Date Time Venue Details

Sun 3rd 3.00pm Douglas Suite Rev. Leslie Edge (Chaplain, Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice)

Wed 6th 7.30pm Douglas Suite David McAdam (Caring for Ex-Offenders, Scotland)

Sun 10th 3.00pm Douglas Suite Rev. Tom Wilkinson (Retired Methodist Minister)

Sun 17th 3.00pm Douglas Suite Rev. David Vogan (Chaplain)

Wed 20th 7.30pm Douglas Suite Ruth McBean (Railway Mission, Glasgow)

Sun 24th 3.00pm Douglas Suite Rev. Kieran Banks (Bellshill Baptist Church)

Mon 25th 7.30pm Douglas Suite Strutherhill Gospel Hall (MUSIC)

Wed 27th 7.30pm Douglas Suite Rev. Cliff Jackson (Chaplain)

⋄ ⋄ ⋄ We hope that you have enjoyed reading the Village Voice this month. As always if you have any items of news or suggestions for the newsletter please contact a member of the Customer Services team on the number below.

Auchlochan Garden Village Customer Services Team - Wendy Wilson, Terrie Pate, Barbara Dalzell & Amanda O’Donnell Tel: 01555 893592 Email: [email protected] Reception is open daily: 9am - 5pm Mon to Fri and 9am - 12.45pm Sat & Sun

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Beauty & Wellbeing

Our fully equipped Hair Dressing salon, Beauty Salon and Therapy Suite are located just off the Village Centre reception. A full hairdressing service is provided and an extensive range of beauty and pampering treatments. Some treatments are available in the comfort of your own home if preferred.

Price List Hair at Studio Wellbeing

Cut & Blow Dry ………… £12.00 Opening Hours Blow Dry ………………… £ 6.50

9am – 4pm: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday Shampoo & Set ………… £ 6.50

Call Trish on: 01555 668217 Dry Cut ...... £ 6.00

Perms ……………………… £25.00 Wellbeing Salon, MHA Auchlochan, Colour ……………………… £25.00 New Trows Road, Lesmahagow ML11 0JS

IN YOUR OWN HOME Extensive range of beauty treatments carried out in your N own home or within our Village Centre Beauty Salon. T Please contact Hilary for further information on the E extensive range of treatments provided which include: - R N Skincare Treatments A Waxing T Electrolysis I Eye Treatments (eyelash tint, eyebrow shape/tint) O MARY REID INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BEAUTY Threading (face, lip, chin, shape) N ITEC Body Treatments (exfoliation, massage, aromatherapy) A CIDESCO C.I.E.L. Hand & Foot Beauty (manicure, pedicure, artificial nails) L I.A. Gel Polish Professional Make-up B E Red Vein Removal A U T Hilary Corbet ITEC, CIDESCO, C.I.E.L., I.A. Y Telephone: (01555) 892136 Mobile: 07850 167 402

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