Connecting Council and Community Autumn 2016

GalaGala fundayfunday asas festivalfestival rollsrolls intointo towntown

Inside your Council magazine: Roman remains discovered, Gold medallist and Good causes! 2 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 3

Emmy on display in

A prestigious Emmy award which was bestowed on a little-known Scottish Contents inventor 130 years after his death - for his pioneering work in image transmission - is Welcome to the autunm edition of edlife now on public display in Kirkintilloch. - East Dunbartonshire Council’s magazine The National Academy of Television Arts Roman Remains 3 for local communities, residents and & Sciences (NATAS) decided to posthumously businesses. honour Alexander Bain (1810-1877), who died It’s a packed issue again with a range and is buried in Kirkintilloch, for his outstanding Roman remains Check out the changes 4 of features and articles focusing on East achievement in technical or engineering Dunbartonshire. development. There’s a photo special from the 2016 Bain’s Technology and Engineering Emmy, which was announced at the 67th Annual Good causes win out 5 Kirkintilloch Canal Festival, which sizzled Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards discovered at despite the drizzle - pages 6-8. in Las Vegas earlier this year, recognised Exciting news about new schools is on his invention of the concept of scanning for Canal Festival 2016 6 pages 10 and 11 and there’s more good image transmission - said to be one of the Pictured are: John Callander, business development manager at CBC; Angeline news about exam results on page 16. fundamental principles of television. town hall Robertson, Partnerships Director at hub West Scotland; Christine Miller, Area Turn to page 12 to read about an The Council, which maintains Bain’s Operations Manager for the Trust; Gerry Cornes, Chief Executive of the Council; Lenzie Meadow 10 exciting new partnership between Rangers gravestone in Kirkintilloch’s Old Aisle Cemetery, A treasure trove of historical Culture (EDLC) Trust to develop and Ruari Gardiner, Michael Laird Architects. artefacts have been discovered the design since the start of 2015. FC and Boclair Academy. was chosen as custodian of the award. The at the Kirkintilloch Town Hall Support has been secured Olympic success for homegrown heroes Emmy has now been given pride of place in a Helping rising stars 13 new display at Kirkintilloch’s Auld Kirk Museum. site as work continues on the from the Heritage Lottery Fund Katherine Grainger and Katie Archibald Kirkintilloch and District Society of iconic building. and other external funders. lights up page 17. Antiquaries played a vital role in ensuring the Archaeologists were stunned Plans include: Council Tax online 14 And for all the latest What’s On Emmy was awarded to Bain and President Ivan to find what are believed to be * New entrance, reception and highlights turn to page 20. Ruddock helped to officially unveil it. Roman remains next to the B-listed vestibule We hope you enjoy this latest issue Dr Ruddock said, “Prior to the award town hall. * Ground-floor event space Meet the new 16 of edlife. For the latest news, follow us of the Emmy, Alexander Bain was a virtually The Council’s contractor * First-floor heritage display, on Twitter @EDCouncil, like us at www. forgotten pioneer of the electric telegraph, was working in the car park area reflecting Kirkintilloch’s rich when it made five finds - including history (in association with apprenticies facebook.com/edunbartonshirecouncil or the electric clock and the fax machine. He is a Roman nail and a piece of EDLC) visit www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk now recognised for inventing the fundamental principles of image transmission and ultimately pre-glaze Roman Samian ware * New office and community What’s On this autumn 20 television that we still utilise and rely on - possibly from a bowl - both space today.” potentially dating back to around * Kitchen, store room, toilets and 160AD or earlier. locker room. This document can be provided in large print, Braille, or on audio cassette, and can be Kevin Mooney, Project Officer The aim is that the new translated into other community languages. Please contact the Council’s at GUARD Archaeology Limited, facility is flexible enough to cater Communications Team on 0300 123 4510. Contact us said, “A number of artefacts were for a range of uses - such as recovered during the excavations. performances, events, weddings, To contact the Council, whatever your “The area of the town heritage displays, receptions and enquiry, simply call Customer Services hall had undergone significant meetings. on the following number: regeneration so chance finds do To complement this mix 0300 123 4510 not always survive in these urban of uses, there will also be an locations.” adjoining extension. The restored edlife is produced by the Communications Team, Customer Services can also be contacted in Work is forging ahead to building will have a potential East Dunbartonshire Council, Civic & Corporate Headquarters, person at Kirkintilloch Community Hub or at transform Kirkintilloch Town Hall seating capacity up to 300. Southbank Marina, 12 Strathkelvin Place, Kirkintilloch, Glasgow G66 1TJ. one of the two interim Hubs in Bishopbriggs into a centre for heritage, arts, The overall project will cost Email: [email protected] For further information: www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk Library or in Brookwood Library in . culture and community use. approximately £5.5m - including You can also email: The new town hall will be £666,600 from the Heritage Please get in touch if you have comments on this magazine or if there are any future functional, flexible and fit for the Lottery Fund (HLF). features you would like to see. [email protected] In addition, you can find out a wide 21st century. It is due to open in Lucy Casot, Head of HLF range of information on the Council on our summer 2017. Scotland, said, “We are looking website, and also carry out a number of The Council has been forward to seeing the restoration transactions. To find out more, visit: working with development partner of this historic building. Residents East Dunbartonshire Council takes no responsibility for advice or information contained on hub West Scotland, Central will be able to take part in a external websites. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply endorsement of the goods or services. Readers considering purchase or major investment decisions are advised to www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk Building Contractors (CBC) and host of community activities in a seek appropriate professional advice. East Dunbartonshire Leisure and wonderful historic setting.” 4 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 5

The 2016 Tea with the “We are fortunate that these Tea time Provost event was held in people made the choice to find the Lairdsland Primary School, where time to get involved in the things with the residents enjoyed afternoon tea that they care deeply about. We with Provost Una Walker and a are all living increasingly busy number of local councillors. lives so finding the time to do Provost for East Dunbartonshire something that benefits others councillors were asked to is something that should be Festive Check out the changes in community nominate people who had gone applauded.” the extra mile, whether through pupils shopping Kirkintilloch and have a say inspirations their exceptional voluntary work, Emmajane Brown (12) and her charity efforts or an outstanding friend Jemma Campbell received Local heroes from across East career. In total, 24 people were awards for their contributions to on the on other town centres Dunbartonshire have been recognised, with each receiving a charity. recognised for the positive certificate for their achievements. Jemma (13) said, “We were menu impact they have made in their Barleybank Provost Una Walker said, delighted when we found out we communities. “This event is one of the highlights had been nominated by Provost As unbelievable as it may seem, of my year, when the spotlight is Walker and we had a lovely Christmas is already on the A new era is taking shape in have their say via an online survey horizon - why not get your festive Kirkintilloch - blending past, - www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ well and truly on the people in afternoon. our communities who are quietly “We both love dogs and had shopping started in style at the present and future. MMBCKCF Provost’s Ladies Lunch? Exciting improvements are Thomas Glen, Depute Chief going about their business, giving wanted to do something together freely of their time to improve for charity. We decided to hold a East Dunbartonshire Provost being delivered in the town centre Executive - Place, Neighbourhood Una Walker will be hosting a for shoppers, traders, residents & Corporate Assets, said, “The aim our local area, help run our local book sale in July and managed groups and organisations, and to raise £165 for the Dogs Trust. Christmas shopping event - in aid and visitors. is to set out a positive, long-term of local charities - on Sunday 6 The aim is simple - to make vision for each town centre and raising money for charity. It was a nice surprise to find out people had taken notice of what November at the Eagle Lodge in Kirkintilloch an even greater place specific future actions. An artist’s impression of the new-look Cowgate Bishopbriggs from 12.30pm, with to live, work and visit. “I would urge everyone we had done.” Provost Walker added, “We a two-course lunch being served at At the heart of the project is with an interest in Bearsden, 1.30pm. Cowgate - the town centre’s main Bishopbriggs and Milngavie have a lot of wonderful young people in East Dunbartonshire Guests can browse a range of thoroughfare - where a variety of town centres to complete the stalls selling luxury gifts including innovative works are underway. online survey, which aims who are making a positive contribution to their communities. handbags, jewellery, homeware, These include lowering to gain feedback on their crafts, cards and books – including vehicle speeds, removing street strengths, weaknesses and key Emmajane and Jemma did a fantastic job raising money for a host of unusual items that can’t be clutter, narrowing roads and requirements.” found in the shops. There is also a widening footways. charity and were worthy recipients of an award.” raffle with some great prizes up for A 20mph speed limit has INFORMATION grabs. been introduced, along with new For more information on the Masterplan visit www. Tickets costs £25 each and can controlled crossings and traffic Good causes at the heart of was held on 20 May at The Eagle be bought individually or you can eastdunbarton.gov.uk/Masterplan Lodge, Bishopbriggs, and a key lights. Kerr Street and Catherine Street junction Good local communities were among group together with friends to book The first improvements have the winners at the 2016 East part of the evening was the raising a table of 10. This year all proceeds already been delivered and are causes Dunbartonshire Business of funds for a variety of charities from the Ladies Lunch will be being successfully used by people Awards. and organisations. Thanks have donated to Marie Curie. travelling on foot, cycles, public An amazing £8,000 was been given to everyone who The venue holds a maximum of transport and in private vehicles. among raised on the night of the final supported the raffles and auction. 200 people and tickets are available Cowgate’s junctions with thanks to generosity of businesses, The Calum Sinclair Macleod by contacting Margaret Small in Catherine Street and Kerr Street the entrepreneurs, organisations and Forever Fund was set up in East Dunbartonshire Council’s now have a fresh new look, enterprises who contributed to the memory of the inspirational Member Support - call 0141 578 as does the stretch of road to winners raffles and auction. pupil 8016 or e-mail margaret.small@ Townhead Bridge - linking in with Proceeds have now been split who tragically lost his life to eastdunbarton.gov.uk Barleybank Square. evenly - £800 each - between a meningitis in 2007 - aged just 12. Instead of being held up by at awards variety of good causes: Remarkably, the fund has now phased traffic lights, vehicles are • The Park Centre raised over £65,000. now able to move freely through • East Dunbartonshire Mum Kim said the £800 schools. Gordon Thomson, Chair the junctions - giving way as Women’s Aid donation would be used of EDVA, said, “We’re absolutely appropriate and being mindful of • The David Philips Crooks Fund by Meningtis Now to raise delighted with the donation. This pedestrians crossing. • The Calum Sinclair Macleod awareness, carry out research, run project brings together different Forever Fund campaigns and more. parts of the community who Views • The Emma Cameron She said, “We’re very grateful wouldn’t normally get the chance for the support. Meningitis Now to meet. It’s a great opportunity.” People are being asked to Foundation doesn’t receive any funding - it’s The project encourages give their views and help • Contact Point in East all by donations. Many thanks people of different ages and guide the future of Bearsden, Dunbartonshire to the awards organisers and experiences to share and Bishopbriggs and Milngavie • Strathkelvin Talking everyone who contributed.” exchange skills - from operating town centres. Newspaper Association You can find out more and iPads and social media to knitting East Dunbartonshire Council • Carers Link East donate by visiting www.calum- and crafts. is preparing strategies for each Dunbartonshire sinclair-macleod.muchloved.com One of the pupils involved of the town centres and wants • Generations Working Together Meanwhile, Generations said, “It’s a really good experience to hear from businesses and (EDVA) Working Together is a project run - you learn so much from people residents on key issues, as well as • Milngavie in Bloom between East Dunbartonshire in all walks of life.” Cowgate looking towards Townhead The final of the 2016 East opportunities for improvement. Voluntary Action (EDVA) and local People are being invited to Dunbartonshire Business Awards 6 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 7 FestivalFestival isis aa splashsplash hithit withwith

Check out this range of photos (here and on p8) taken during the weekend - pics by KDCVC, Roberto peoplepeople ofof allall agesages Cavieres and Paul Allardes.

Thousands of people rocked, to next year and hope we can rolled, sailed and cycled their increase the number of cars a way to the 2016 Kirkintilloch bit.” Canal Festival. Kirkintilloch Canal A week of boat trips Festival is organised by East culminated in Get Active Dunbartonshire Council and Saturday and Gala Sunday on partners such as the Leisure 20-21 August 2016. and Culture (EDLC) Trust, Police The annual celebration of Scotland, Scottish Fire and everything nautical and nice Rescue, Kirkintilloch Baptist was another great success - Church, the Regent Centre, entertaining thousands, as well New College Lanarkshire - as delivering a boost for the Kirkintilloch, Seagull Trust, economy of Kirkintilloch and Scottish Canals, the Forth East Dunbartonshire. and Clyde Canal Society and Fun for all the family Kirkintilloch & District Classic included roller discos, live Vehicle Club (KDCVC). music, fireworks, canoeing, The Council worked with archery, climbing, food court, East Dunbartonshire Tobacco stone carving, arts and crafts, Alliance to promote the canal cycle rides and Nerf Adventures. festival as a Clean Air Event this Other highlights included year - with tobacco-free areas. a classic car display, market Thomas Glen, Depute stalls, street theatre, funfair and Chief Executive - Place, carousel, Coppers on the Canal, Neighbourhood & Corporate mini golf and more. Assets, said, “The weather Gala Sunday fun took place was most certainly mixed, but around the Marina, Barleybank, that did not dampen any of the grassed area at Sainsbury’s the enthusiasm - particularly and New College Lanarkshire – among the children and young Kirkintilloch Campus. at heart who got into the swing Kirkintilloch Baptist Church of things at the many different and the Auld Kirk Museum also events. hosted events. “The festival remains an Praising the event on the annual highlight for local Council’s Facebook page, local residents and visitors from resident Isabelle King said, far and wide - attracting “Another roaring success. My thousands of people to East family really look forward to Dunbartonshire and helping to this event every year. Well done deliver a massive boost to the all involved in the planning.” local economy. Both Stephanie Hamilton “I look forward to another and Jane Fraser said it was great event in 2017.” “great”, while Maureen Welsh added, “I love the canal festival.” Alan Duncan, Kirkintilloch & District Classic Vehicle Club, said, “The dancers on the Sunday and groups on the Saturday night were great. I loved the rock group in particular - hope we get them again next year. “We are looking forward 8 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 9 ...a splash hit East Dunbartonshire ...a splash hit Information Line

FIND INFORMATION FOR YOURSELF A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER 0141 438 2347 MONDAMONDAY – FRIDAY 9.30am until 4.30pm

The OPAL line is a FREE service that pprovides information about:

• Claiming the allowances and benefits you are entitled to • Finding Social and leisure activities in your area • Health and wellbeing information

• Finding cleaning companies or shopping services • Finding extra help and support if you need it •Any other information you want to know – just ask

Search for OPALA East DunbartonshirDun e or scan these codes 10 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 11 Lenzie Meadow is a first-class success Different class - that’s the but I’m sure I’ll get used to it. The verdict on East Dunbartonshire’s teachers are all really nice too.” newest school from pupils, The school has been parents and teachers. delivered in partnership with hub Lenzie Meadow Primary - West Scotland and was built by the second to be delivered by main contactor Lendlease. the Council as part of its Primary It is bright and colourful, School Improvement Programme - and the layout makes use of open opened its doors at the start of the areas and outdoor spaces for August term. project work or break-out sessions. Excited pupils who had The school is fitted with previously attended Lenzie Moss up-to-date technology and has and Lenzie Primary joined the new LCD touchscreens, as well as Wi-Fi Primary 1s to become the first throughout the building. children to be taught at the state- Headteacher Greg Bremner of-the-art school. told edlife, “Everyone at Lenzie Built on the site of the old Meadow Primary School is really Lenzie Moss Primary it has a enthusiastic about this new school roll of 568 pupils, with building – the fantastic layout, 58 pre-school children in its new the outdoor spaces and all the nursery. modern additions – it is a great On the day Lenzie Meadow environment for delivering the Primary opened its doors edlife Curriculum for Excellence. spoke to two happy pupils as they “We are all settling in well got to know the layout of their and the two communities of Lenzie new school. and Lenzie Moss Primary Schools Primary school P5 pupil Lucy, who formerly have come together seamlessly. attended Lenzie Primary, said, “It is early days, but there is “The new school is really good, it’s already a welcoming, community programme really big and great fun. There is atmosphere here at Lenzie lots of space and I have enjoyed Meadow Primary School and I’m meeting all my new classmates.” looking forward to seeing the is forging ahead Her classmate Ross, a former pupils and colleagues continue to pupil of Lenzie Moss Primary, said, flourish in the years ahead.” The brand new £11.5m Lenzie “The school has a lot of space – it Meadow Primary - which threw is so big it’s still a bit confusing, open its doors to pupils in August - is part of the Council’s ongoing Primary School Improvement Programme. Work continues to forge ahead, buoyed by the success of Lenzie Meadow and the award- winning Lairdsland Primary in Kirkintilloch. Progress is being made across the area: • The new school in Bishopbriggs has been named Thomas Muir Primary. It is part of a development to replace Auchinairn and Woodhill Primaries, and Cleddens Learning & Childcare Centre. • Likewise the new school in Kirkintilloch has been named Jacqui MacDonald, the Holy Trinity Primary. The Council’s Chief Education Officer, school will replace St said, “Our programme is forging Agatha’s and St Flannan’s ahead and before long hundreds Primaries. of families in Bishopbriggs and • Further consultation will take Kirkintilloch will be able to enjoy place with pupils, staff, the benefits of being educated parents and the wider in modern, well-equipped and community to look at the attractive new schools.” design of the new school to Check out the Schools & be built on the site of St Learning section of our website Andrew’s PS in Bearsden - (www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk) for a A look inside Lenzie Meadow - Headteacher Greg Bremner is to replace it and St Joseph’s more detailed round-up. pictured top right with pupils and Deputes in Milngavie. 12 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 13 Courting success Help for with new badminton club rising sports People of all ages in East “East Dunbartonshire Leisure and stars in East Dunbartonshire are being Culture have been very receptive to the invited to a raise a racket. initiative and we appreciate the support BADMINTONscotland they have provided in aiming to grow Dunbartonshire has teamed up with East and develop badminton within the Dunbartonshire Leisure and community.” The next batch of rising sports Culture (EDLC) Trust to launch a John Farr, from EDLC Trust, said, stars have been selected for the Community Participation Club “This is great news and a terrific Athlete Performance Programme Ready for learning - Rangers at Boclair (CPC). sporting chance for everyone to pick up offered by East Dunbartonshire The first CPC initiative will be a racket and get involved in badminton. Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust. based at Allander Leisure Centre “This will be the first Net result for young Rangers The scheme provides athletes in Bearsden - aiming to promote Community Participation Club in East from all sports with strength and badminton to everyone, regardless Dunbartonshire - aimed at encouraging conditioning coaching, support players at Boclair Academy of age or ability. people to play badminton regardless of and guidance to help them Anne Smillie, Chief Executive age or ability. compete at the highest level. A new crop of Rangers stars forward and we are excited of BADMINTONscotland, said: “The Trust works closely with Volunteer coaches help are being educated at Boclair about working with Headteacher “This is a really exciting time partners such as BADMINTONscotland participants through lifestyle Academy in Bearsden thanks to Douglas Brown and his team at for badminton in Scotland with to provide a wide variety of sporting, management, programme detail, a new partnership agreement Boclair Academy as we deliver only a year to go until the World leisure and cultural opportunities in nutrition and specific competition Andrew’s on the crest of a wave between Rangers Football something special.” Championships, but just as East Dunbartonshire.” Club and East Dunbartonshire Headteacher Douglas Brown preparation. important as the event itself is the Anyone interested in getting One of the Athlete Performance Programme’s success stories is windsurfer Andrew Brown, who was Council. welcomed the partnership, The programme supported 22 legacy it will leave. involved with the club at the Allander supported for two years before graduating to the Institute of Sport’s national scheme. At the start of the 2016/17 saying, “This is such an exciting athletes out of 117 applications in “We hope to use the World Leisure Centre should contact John The 17-year-old received four hours per week of strength and conditioning - including motor skills, term in August, 24 players from development for the school and it its first year and 25 from 98 in the Championships as a vehicle to Farr on 0141 578 8437 or e-mail John. technical development, strength, speed, flexibility, stability, and injury prevention and management. the Rangers Youth Academy has been great to see the arrival of second. inspire as many people as possible [email protected] Andrew, who is the British under-19 champion in the RS:X Olympic Windsurfing class, said the East joined S1-S3 classes at the school, the players this term. This year a further 25 will be across Scotland to join a local The TOTAL BWF World Dunbartonshire Athlete Performance Programme was instrumental in his development. combining their academic and “Boclair Academy has always offered strength and conditioning badminton club and I’m delighted Championships will take place at the He enthused, “It improved my overall fitness by over 30% and put me as the fittest sailor in the British football studies throughout the been a busy, thriving hub of support after a two-day to be able to launch the first of our Emirates Arena from August 21-27 next Youth Sailing Team last October. It helped me to improve my nutrition and mindset through workshops. school day. activity and the addition of these assessment involving a host of Community Participation Clubs at year. “It also helped me develop a sound weightlifting technique and a robust body - putting me ahead of Boclair Academy’s young men is bringing a new volunteer coaches. The programme Allander Leisure Centre. the game now in the youth/senior programme.” reputation as one of Scotland’s energy. They are polite, engaged now supports a total of 12 sports Andrew, who will represent Great Britain at the ISAF Youth Sailing World Championships in New top performing schools, and its and enthusiastic - and are a credit including ski racing, sailing and Zealand in December and aims to compete in the 2024 Olympic Games, had some words of advice for the proximity to the club’s Murray to themselves, their families and cycling. next crop of athletes to be inducted on to the Athlete Performance Programme. Park training facility in nearby Rangers Football Club.” An official induction event He said, “If you are serious about your sport and goals then go for it. The Athlete Performance Milngavie, made it the perfect Similar successful took place at St Ninian’s High Programme will improve your all-round performance and will be a big advantage.” choice. partnerships between clubs and School on 17 August where You can follow Andrew’s progress on his Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/SurferoftheWind/ Since starting at the school, schools exist across Scotland and the athletes were briefed on the youth academy pupils have Europe, with local communities the programme and heard received a significant increase in and schools at their heart. presentations from practitioners People living with dementia football contact time, taking part East Dunbartonshire Council ...said Lorna as she on topics such as strength and are being offered the chance in around 16 hours a week of also has a partnership agreement conditioning, nutrition and Walk a way to stay to keep fit while socialising football-related activity. with Celtic Football Club which bought tickets for recovery strategies. as Walking Football Daytime sessions are more sees their Youth Academy players Mark Grant, General fit and have a ball a Dinner Dance on sessions return to East beneficial for development as the attend St Ninian’s High School in Manager of EDLC Trust, said, “East Dunbartonshire. players are fresh and more focused Kirkintilloch. 29th October for Dunbartonshire is home to some Walking Football is a than in the evening. It has produced the recent of the most promising sporting Deafblind Scotland’s slow-paced version of the The football element of their Young Player of the Year, Kieran talents in Scotland and the beautiful game - aimed at education is being delivered at Tierney, and the club’s youngest programme has been designed to “Field of Dreams” adults and designed to help the school by Alan Boyd, one of ever scorer, Jack Aitchison. provide support at a crucial stage people keep an active lifestyle the club’s highly-rated coaches, Building began on the new in their development. in their older age. supported by a team of experts, “I would like to extend my Centre on 17th August East Dunbartonshire sports scientists and analysts. thanks to everyone involved when Michael Anderson, became one of the first places Rangers’ Head of Academy, in the programme - many of Deafblind director, dug in Scotland to launch sessions Craig Mulholland, told edlife , whom selflessly volunteer their of Walking Football specifically “Getting this project off the ground the first turf. time to support the events - for people living with dementia has involved a lot of hard work by and wish good luck to all the Can you support our “Count me in!” campaign when the WALK Project teamed a team of talented staff and it will athletes involved in this year’s up with Ceartas Advocacy on Wednesday 24 August and learn skills, have fun and socialise help us produce a much higher and help fund the vital specialist adaptations programme.” and other key services in the is running fortnightly until 14 at the same time. quality and different type of player and equipment necessary? Thank you. Walking Football is on at 1pm at East Dunbartonshire Dementia December. “Even if you have never for Rangers. Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre on Network last year. Mark Grant, General Manager played football before, this is the “No longer should talented Deafblind Scotland the following dates: The eight-week block, of East Dunbartonshire Leisure perfect introduction to the game footballers need to make a choice 21 Alexandra Avenue, Lenzie, G66 5BG 26 October, funded by Paths for All, was and Culture Trust, said, “Walking and organisers will help you between education and football. Tel: 0141 777 5830 9 November, 23 November, so successful that the sessions football is designed to give you practice at a level of activity that We are extremely grateful for the [email protected] Scottish Charity 7 December and 14 December. continued fortnightly until the chance to play the game you best suits your needs - making backing of the Rangers Board to www.deafblindscotland.org.uk No.SC031167 For further information the start of the summer. love, but reduce the chances of sure you are safe, comfortable and allow us to move the Academy contact Ceartas Advocacy on The new season kicked off injury. It’s a great way to keep fit, above all else, having fun.” The association of deafblind and dual sensory impaired people 0141 775 0433. 14 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 15 Council Tax Online - Thumbs-up for Council New website service for Residents in tenant

Your Council Tax Online is a new Council Tax Bill. If you do not satisfaction service that allows residents to have these details, please contact view and manage their Council Tax Customer Services on 0300 123 survey account on the Council website. 4510 or e-mail customer.services@ The majority of tenants in East Once you register with the new eastdunbarton.gov.uk and we’ll Dunbartonshire are “very” or service, you will be able to: arrange for this information to be “fairly satisfied” with the Council • Tell the Council when you sent out to you. as a landlord according to are moving in or out of Ann Davie, the Council’s feedback from a recent tenant East Dunbartonshire Depute Chief Executive responsible satisfaction survey. • View your Council Tax account for Education, People & Business, The main aim of the study • Set up to pay Council Tax by is delighted that this service is was to research tenant satisfaction Direct Debit now available and said, “When we in relation to a range of core • Claim a single person launched our new website at the services provided by the Council’s discount end of last year we said that we Housing and Property Maintenance • Change personal details would be introducing more and services. • Sign up to receive online bills more online services and Council A random sample of 1,300 • See a summary of current Tax Online is the first of these. tenants was drawn and 529 Council Tax Reduction award “Using the service is interviews were completed - • Check the Council Tax band straightforward and there are representing 41 per cent of those of any property in East responses to frequently asked More information asked to take part. Dunbartonshire. questions on the web page to The survey focused on a range You will need both your help. By signing up, you will be To access this new service of service areas such as: Council Tax Reference Number able to access and update your simply visit: • Overall satisfaction and your online key to sign up, Council tax information 24/7 at a www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/ • Communication and both of which can be found on time and place that suits you.” CouncilTaxOnline participation the top right of your most recent • Home repairs and maintenance 6 September • Neighbourhood management • Rent and value for money. Power cut … The annual survey, carried out by an independent research company, also revealed that who you gonna call? the vast majority of tenants felt that the rent they pay for their Gold star for the Project 101 team accommodation and services the Council’s Housing Service provides were very, or fairly, good value for money. House about this - There was a significant Would you know who to phone increase in the percentage of to report a power cut or find out people who were satisfied with more about what’s happening in the quality of their home and the your area during an outage? glowing report for repairs carried out by the Council. Well, this is your chance to Responses will enable get on the ball and keep a handy the Council to prioritise areas note of the new number to ring. for service improvement, help On 6 September a new Project 101 continuous improvement in future national number was launched by service delivery and inform future all electricity network operators A housing information and report following an inspection in inspection was exceptionally strategy development. An action –105. advice service for young people March. positive and highlights the great plan will be produced to address Now, instead of trying to • Calling 105 is just one way in East Dunbartonshire has Most recently, the Project work being done at Project 101. the improvement areas identified. remember 0800 numbers you can to contact your electricity network received a glowing report from 101 team’s main focus has been “The caseworkers at Project Grant Mackintosh, Strategic simply call 105. operator. Check out their website the Care Inspectorate. around welfare reform, benefit 101 are very approachable to Lead - Housing, said, “It was Here’s what you need to for updates and most are on social Project 101 provides issues, rent arrear queries, our young service users and are pleasing to see some positive know: media too. specialist advice and assistance to homelessness and housing proactive with housing enquiries. feedback from the tenant • When you dial 105 you • You can also call 105 if you people aged between 14 and 25 enquiries. They have a sense of pride in their satisfaction survey. It is important will be put through to your local spot damage to electricity power who are faced with homelessness, The service, based in work and in the positive outcomes that tenants get the opportunity electricity network operator – the lines and substations that could along with those who require Kirkintilloch, was rated as Grade 5 which their service users achieve. to have their say in the service company that manages the cables, be dangerous. If there’s a serious housing advice and information (Very Good) - the second highest “The report also praises provided and that we listen and power lines and substations that immediate risk, please call the on housing options. It focuses ranking - for its quality of care them for engaging well with improve in the areas that can be deliver electricity in your area emergency services too. on this age group due to the and support, quality of staffing, young people and for their caring improved. • Ringing 105 is completely vulnerabilities that many young and quality of management and attitude, and it is pleasing to hear “I’d like to thank those who free and everyone can use it, people have. leadership. them get the recognition they took the time to complete the regardless of who you buy your The service, which also Grant Mackintosh, Strategic deserve.” survey - your contributions really electricity from provides advice and support to Lead - Housing, said, “The help us to shape our plans for the new tenants, received a positive feedback received from the future.” 16 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk edlife 17

Hillhead’s new dedicated reassurance. community police officer is PC Lang has been joined hoping to make a big impact in by the Community Wardens on New the area. regular joint patrols covering PC Alison Lang has just hotspot areas and there are plans completed her first four months to hold safety information days in Hillhead of a role funded jointly by East the community centre, where local Dunbartonshire Council and Police residents can pop in and talk to Scotland. She will spend her time them about the issues which affect not just dealing with issues of the local community. officer’s crime and anti-social behaviour, PC Lang said, “There really is but also working with local a true community spirit in the area residents to ensure Hillhead is a and I have felt very welcomed in a force safe and pleasant place for all. my role. Previous dedicated officers “I intend to continue the in Hillhead have not only reduced good work of my predecessors, to be levels of crime, but have worked but I’m also open to suggestions directly with the Community on how the community would like Wardens, Hillhead Housing me to spend my time in the area.” reckoned Association, local schools and You can contact Alison on community groups to carry 101 or via e-mail on Alison. out community clear-ups, hold [email protected]. with surgeries, take part in community She will also be out and about in football games and visit vulnerable Hillhead on foot and on her bike. residents to offer advice and

The new apprentices are pictured with Ann Davie, Depute Chief Executive - Education, People & Business, and Drummond Stewart, Manager- Skills for Learning, Life and Work. for amazing - memoriesmemories forfor Welcome aboard - strong exam results once again This year’s SQA exam results Overall results in S6 remained Olympics stars new apprentices join highlight once again the hard strong with 35.3% gaining three Olympics stars work of East Dunbartonshire’s or more Highers. Those achieving students, teachers and school Advanced Higher rose by 3% to Homegrown heroes Katherine luck messages from all over Britain the Council employees. 33.9% Grainger and Katie Archibald - including words of support from For the fourth successive year, apprenticeship as a fresh start The results show an Chief Education Officer Jacqui have been praised for flying the Provost Una Walker on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council has - doing something I could see improving trend in overall MacDonald welcomed the news, flag for East Dunbartonshire, East Dunbartonshire. welcomed a new intake of local leading to the kind of career I’d achievement rates. saying, “There are positive stories Scotland and Team GB at the Rio Katie has now won medals young people onto its successful like.” Across the area, 95.8% of coming from all our schools with Olympics. at the Olympics, World, European Modern Apprentice Programme. Ann Davie, Depute Chief S4 pupils achieved five or more so many people reaping the Katherine, who grew up in and Commonwealth Games. The arrival of eight new Executive – Education, People National 4 passes while 67.5% rewards of their hard work over Bearsden and attended Mosshead She said, “We were Modern Apprentices brings the and Business, was delighted to obtained five or more passes at the last year. Special mention Primary and , convinced it was going to go total number of apprenticeships welcome the new-starts to the National 5. must go to Bishopbriggs Academy competed in the double sculls final down to the wire. I had a sneaky created by the Council to 35 since Council. More than 78% of S5 pupils whose results are outstanding. with Victoria Thornley. look at the end to see if we were 2013. She said, “We work hard to obtained one or more Highers, “The high quality of learning The pair won Silver after there. We felt like superheroes.” The successful apprentices offer our apprentices a first-rate with 58.5% achieving three or and support offered to pupils being narrowly pipped to first Katherine - the first British from Bearsden, Bishopbriggs, programme, giving them the more. The number of S5 pupils and, of course, the great effort place in a thrilling race. woman to win medals at five Kirkintilloch and Lennoxtown opportunity to develop the skills, achieving five or more Highers rose put in by the young people Katherine won gold with successive games - has now will now embark on two-year knowledge and experience they’ll to 34.1%. themselves is evident across East Anna Watkins in the London retired from competing. programmes in accountancy, need to make it in their chosen That is an annual rise of Dunbartonshire.” Olympics in 2012 and is Britain’s The rowing sensation said, business administration, early field. 1.7%, 2.9% and 1% respectively. Gordon Moulsdale, most decorated female Olympian “I’m very proud of the way Vicky years, health & social care, ICT and “I know from speaking to our The stand-out results for S5 Headteacher at Bishopbriggs - having now competed at five and I handled the last 12 months. procurement. new recruits that they are keen to pupils came from Bishopbriggs Academy, added, “As well as the Games. “I think we both knew were Former Boclair Academy get stuck in and get their careers Academy which recorded the excellent work that goes on in Meanwhile, Milngavie’s capable of one more outstanding pupil Rowan Miln is one of three off to a flying start.” area’s best attainment rates at this classrooms on a day-to-day basis, magical cyclist Katie Archibald performance and we could bring it apprentices starting in business Local employers interested in level: the extensive support programme saddled up in the Velodrome and in the Olympic final.” administration and can’t wait to finding out more about starting a • 85% of pupils attained at we have in place - consisting of helped Team GB’s women’s pursuit Coach Paul Thompson said, get settled in her post. Modern Apprenticeship Programme least one Higher (up 8%) assertive mentoring, after-school team strike gold - shattering the “What she’s done here [Rio] and She said, “I left school in or other employability scheme • 71% attained 3+ Highers study classes and our Easter world record in the process. through her career is outstanding 2014, but wasn’t certain what I can contact the Council’s Skills for (up 16%) Revision School - has been a major Katie is pictured with a and full credit to her. She is a class wanted to do. I’d been to college Learning, Life & Work Team on • 42% attained 5+ Highers factor.” special GB flag - featuring good act.” and got a job, but I saw this 0300 123 4510. (up 11%) 18 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk www.eastdunbarton.gov.ukwww.eastdunbarton.gov.uk ed edlifelife 19 19

n Conservative (Con) Universal Credit expansion n Independent (Ind) More strings n Labour (Lab) your n Liberal Democrat (LD) local councillor n Scottish National Party (SNP) in East Dunbartonshire to the bow For details of Councillors’ surgeries or if you would like to speak to your Councillor, Universal Credit, a new benefit claim Universal Credit instead please call the number above his/her photograph. To find out who your Councillor administered by the Department of applying for income-based for is, please check the website at www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk or call 0141 578 8086. for Work and Pensions, is Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income- being expanded in East related Employment and Support HSCP Maureen Henry (Lab) Jim Gibbons (SNP) Eric Gotts (LD) Duncan Cumming (Ind) Ian Mackay (SNP) Dunbartonshire to include more Allowance, Income Support, Ward 1 - Milngavie Ward 1 - Milngavie Ward 1 - Milngavie Ward 2 - Bearsden North Ward 2 - Bearsden North groups of working-age people working and child tax credits, and East Dunbartonshire Health and Tel: 0141 578 8163 Tel: 0141 578 8163 Tel: 0141 578 8163 Tel: 0141 578 8016 Tel: 0141 578 8016 who live in specific postcode Housing Benefit. Email: maureen.henry@ Email: jim.gibbons@ Email: eric.gotts@ Email: duncan.cumming@ Email: ian.mackay@ Social Care Partnership (HSCP) eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk areas served by Kirkintilloch However, anyone who needs is now responsible for looking Jobcentre. help to pay their Council Tax still after more integrated services. At the moment, Universal needs to apply separately to NHS Community Children’s Credit can be claimed by anyone the Council to get this help. It’s Services, Children’s Social Work who lives in any area of East important that the application is Services and Criminal Justice of contact if they have complex Dunbartonshire who is single and made as soon as possible - even if Social Work Services have been care needs. would have previously claimed a decision hasn’t yet been made on added to the strategic planning HSCP Interim Chief Officer, Jobseeker’s Allowance. This group a Universal Credit claim. responsibilities of the HSCP James Hobson, said “Bringing of people will still be able to make For more information contact following Ministerial approval more services into the Partnership claims, but Universal Credit is your local Jobcentre. Ashay Ghai (LD) Keith Small (SNP) Manjinder Shergill (Lab) Vaughan Moody (LD) John Dempsey (Lab) on 5 July 2016. will enable health and social care Ward 4 - Campsie Ward 2 - Bearsden North Ward 3 - Bearsden South Ward 3 - Bearsden South Ward 3 - Bearsden South changing so that more people will Details regarding Universal These join the Partnership’s practitioners to work jointly to & Kirkintilloch North be able to follow suit. Credit can be found on our website Tel: 0141 578 8016 Tel: 0141 578 8163 Tel: 0141 578 8163 Tel: 0141 578 8163 Tel: 0141 578 8072 responsibilities for Adult Health provide improved care and better Email: ashay.ghai@ Email: Keith.small@ Email: manjinder.shergill@ Email: vaughan.moody@ From November, Universal - www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk - and Email: john.dempsey@ and Social Care, which have been outcomes for service users across eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk Credit will expand to become the Department for Work and in place since September 2015. all ages in our communities. available to all people in or out Pensions website - www.gov.uk/ Users will not see any change “The formal integration of work, those on low incomes, universal-credit. There is also a to how their current services are of services under the recent families and those with disabilities helpline - 0345 600 0723. delivered. Public Bodies (Joint Working) provided that they live at an Health and social care (Scotland) Act provides an even address with one of the following INFORMATION integration aims to put service greater opportunity to build postcodes: G64 4, G66 1, G66 2, You can get independent advice users, patients and carers right on the successful joint working G66 3, G66 4, G66 5, G66 7 and and information on Welfare Reform at the heart of decision making arrangements that have already G66 8. from East Dunbartonshire Citizens’ - giving them more of a voice in been in place for some of our This means that working-age Gemma Welsh (Lab) David Ritchie (SNP) Billy Hendry (Con) Anne McNair (SNP) Una Walker (Lab) Advice Bureau on 0141 775 3220. how they receive services. It also health and social care teams in Ward 4 - Campsie Ward 4 - Campsie Ward 5 - Bishopbriggs Ward 5 - Bishopbriggs Ward 5 - Bishopbriggs people in those areas will now provides people with a single point East Dunbartonshire.” & Kirkintilloch North & Kirkintilloch North North & Torrance North & Torrance North & Torrance Tel: 0141 578 8072 Tel: 0141 578 8072 Tel: 0141 578 8016 Tel: 0141 578 8016 Tel: 0141 578 8086 Email: gemma.welsh@ Email: david.ritchie@ Email: billy.hendry@ Email: anne.mcnair@ Email: una.walker@ Pictured: Fair Trade campaigner Donald Macleod; Kirsty Anderson, Policy eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk Adviser at the Council; and Fair Trade campaigners Tracy Mitchell and Liz Ibbotson.

Alan Moir (Lab) Gordan Low (SNP) Michael O’Donnell (Lab) Rhondda Geekie (Lab) Anne Jarvis (Con) Ward 6 - Bishopbriggs Ward 6 - Bishopbriggs Ward 6 - Bishopbriggs Ward 7 - Lenzie & Ward 7 - Lenzie & South South South Kirkintilloch South Kirkintilloch South Fairtrade Tel: 0141 578 8072 Tel: 0141 578 8072 Tel: 0141 578 8072 Tel: 0141 578 8038 Tel: 0141 578 8038 Email: alan.moir@ Email: gordan.low@ Email: michael.o’donnell@ Email: rhondda.geekie@ Email: anne.jarvis@ success in Lenzie eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk A strong local appetite for well as recognition of the fantastic playing fair has seen Lenzie’s work taking place. Fairtrade Town Status renewed “Once again Lenzie has until July 2018. shown how we punch above our Lenzie Fairtrade Group weight in the Fairtrade community. recently announced the good news “Lenzie was recently chosen and held a concert to celebrate. to be a case study for smaller Lenzie has been at the towns to encourage them to aim Gillian Renwick (SNP) John Jamieson (SNP) Stewart MacDonald (Lab) Jack Young (Ind) Ward 7 - Lenzie & Ward 8 - Kirkintilloch Ward 8 - Kirkintilloch East Ward 8 - Kirkintilloch Did you know? forefront of local efforts since East for Fairtrade Town status.” Kirkintilloch South East & Twechar & Twechar East & Twechar Anyone can attend Dunbartonshire was designated a The group recently received Tel: 0141 578 8038 Tel: 0141 578 8038 Tel: 0141 578 8038 Tel: 0141 578 8038 Council meetings at Email: gillian.renwick@ Email: stewart.macdonald Email: jack.young@ Fairtrade Zone in October 2007 - the runner-up award for the Most Email: john.jamieson@ the Headquarters in eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk @eastdunbarton.gov.uk eastdunbarton.gov.uk one of Scotland’s first. Creative Fairtrade Breakfast held Kirkintilloch to observe Liz Ibbotson, of Lenzie during Fairtrade Fortnight. what goes on and hear Fairtrade Group, said, “We’re * East Dunbartonshire Council their local Councillor. The delighted that Lenzie’s Fairtrade is committed to the ethos and next meetings are planned for Town Status has been renewed values of Fair Trade, and has Thursday 10 November and until July 2018. pledged to continue to work with Thursday 22 December. “It’s a reflection of the strong local communities, organisations Visit the website appetite for Faitrade locally, as and traders on the important issue. www. eastdunbarton.gov.uk

20 edlife www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk What’sWhat’s onon

autumnautumnWHAT’S ON 20162016

Scary stories, super sport, rhyme New attractions include a hi- times and comic book heroes tech Comics Plus service - offering OCTOBER / DECEMBER 2016 - autumn is shaping up to be a access to an online universe of special season for people of all comics and graphic novels - and a ages. new dedicated app which makes Sea Spray Pot Anne Morrison East Dunbartonshire Leisure borrowing and reading library and Culture Trust and the Council eBooks even easier than ever. The Big Draw 2016 has a have a wealth of events on offer. Other attractions at local theme of ‘Science, Technology and Highlights include: libraries include: Engineering’, with events in the Auld Kirk Museum (22 October) • Poetry Walk from • A wide range of clubs and and Lillie Art Gallery (15 October). Bishopbriggs Library - groups for young readers If you want to get creative there 12 October - 6pm-7.45pm • Learning opportunities are also courses in 3D Printing, • Heritage events and courses. ceramics, drawing and painting - • Haunting Tales - celebrate for a range of ages and abilities. the season of mists and magic The Auld Kirk Museum is with a scary session of tales hosting the East Dunbartonshire and poems in a darkened Photography Competition Poetry Walk On the sporting front, Auld Kirk Museum. Wine and Exhibition until 27 October. The 12 October the October Holiday Activity nibbles - over-18s only. Takes Christmas Art & Craft Exhibition Programme takes place from place on 26 October - is on from 5 November to 23 17-23 October - featuring a 6.30pm-7.45pm. December. smorgasbord of sport in venues across East Dunbartonshire. • Book Week Scotland The Lillie Art Gallery in Activities include swimming, (21-26 November) with talks Milngavie is presenting a Jakob football, rugby, gymnastics, by adventurer Mark Jakobson exhibition until 3 badminton, tennis, netball and Beaumont, crime writer Frank November, featuring atmospheric basketball. There are special Muir and TV author Ann photos. You can also see the offers and a host of fun fitness Cleeves. Glasgow Society of Women opportunities. Artists Annual exhibition until 3 November - with a range of dynamic abstract works in a range Visit www.edlc.co.uk and of mediums. www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk for more information

Haunting Tales 26 October

Meet the authors - 21-26 November