


Celtic donate £10,000 to Children’s Hospital during visit
Celtic squad and team boss Brendan Rodgers visited the hospital on Monday By Peter Cassidy Celtic Football Club have presented a donation of £10,000 from

OLSP win the National Nurturing School Award
November 2023 By Lucy Ashton Young people and staff at Our Lady and Saint Patrick’s High School are celebrating after the school was recognised with

Residents sign petition against plans to close bank branches
Over 1,700 people have signed a petition protesting against the Bank of Scotland’s decision to close branches. Politicians support customers in bid to keep Argyll

HOUSING: SHIP SET TO SAIL WITH AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE
By Lauren Crooks More than 800 additional properties will be made available throughout West Dunbartonshire as part of a new affordable housing plan for the

Chairman at local health board held nine other top jobs while body faced major crises
Health Board chairperson John Brown and Dame Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour health spokesperson. By Bill Heaney NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde chairman John Brown held

HERNIA SUFFERERS FACE LONG and ‘PAINFUL AND DANGEROUS’ WAITS
Thousands of Scots are facing painful and dangerous long waits for hernia treatment, Scottish Labour has warned today. Statistics obtained by Scottish Labour have shown

Lib Dems call for government to name seven independent schools which have dangerous concrete
By Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP has today revealed that seven independent schools in Scotland have identified the presence of reinforced

DRUGS: Police uncover cannabis farm in old Rialto cinema and bingo hall
By Lucy Ashton Police have found a ‘cannabis cultivation’ in the now derelict Rialto bingo hall in Dumbarton. Police Scotland officers forced entry into the hall in

BOUNDARIES: Growing opposition to changes in the Dumbarton constituency
Dame Jackie Baillie and Marie McNair, MSPs for Dumbarton and Clydebank constituencies. By Bill Heaney Proposals for a major redrawing of Scottish Parliament constituency boundaries

King Charles briefed against Meghan Markle and Prince Harry over a swift Laphroaig with the Press
As well as recounting events at a dinner he admits he was not invited to, the author also claims that Laphroaig (which IS the King’s

About 75% of Gaza’s population now displaced as resumed offensive focuses on south
Israel says its ground forces are operating ‘in all of Gaza’ Israel’s military ordered more areas in and around Gaza’s second-largest city of Khan Younis

NUCLEAR ENERGY: Patrick Harvie doubles down on nuclear opposition
Dumbarton man Patrick Harvie makes an appearance on the BBC. By Lucy Ashton Greens Minister Patrick Harvie has defended his government’s pursuit of “clean, green

Homeless crisis sparks call to declare ‘national housing emergency’
Full story on The Ferret website Author: Karin Goodwin in The Ferret Charities have called on the Scottish Government to declare a national housing emergency,

Patients staying in mental health wards 111,130 days more than necessary
By Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and health spokesperson Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP has today called on the SNP/Green Government to enhance investment in mental

BAILLIE SELECTS HER CHRISTMAS CARD WINNERS
By Lucy Ashton Jackie Baillie has chosen her winners for her 2023 Christmas card competition which was open to all Primary 7 pupils in the

“Shocking and shameful” number of assaults on NHS workers revealed
By Lucy Ashton Almost 14,000 assaults were recorded against NHS staff in Scotland between April 2022 and July 2023, the Scottish Conservatives can reveal today.

GORDONSTOUN HEAD TEACHER SAYS MOBILE PHONES ARE DISRUPTIVE
Shona Robison and King Charles, who went to Gordonstoun School. By Bill Heaney The use of mobile phones has been highlighted as one of the

Good Morning from a cold #Dumbarton
Pix By Pedro This fantastic picture of Dumbarton in the snow was taken by Pedro. The best snow picture I have seen today. It’s not

FERRIES: IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO MAKE IT TO IRELAND FOR CHRISTMAS
It’s not too late to make it home for Christmas Spend Christmas in Ireland with the people and places that feel like home – whether

ON RAGLAN ROAD BY PATRICK KAVANAGH
On this day in 1967 – Death of poet and novelist, Patrick Kavanagh, who was born in Inniskeen, Co Monaghan in 1904. Patrick Kavanagh was

UKRAINE: Zelenskyy says Israel-Hamas war threatens to overshadow Ukraine conflict
Saturday 2 December 2023 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the war with Russia is entering a new stage.Credit: AP/Srdjan Nedeljkovic and Felipe Dana By ITN reporters

WEEKEND: APOLOGIES, MY COMPUTER IS BEING REPLACED
Local editor uses local computer repair and replacement business My IT equipment is as old as this picture of me when I was a young

Israeli strikes kill over 175 people in Gaza as ceasefire ends, says Hamas
Friday 1 December 2023 at 10:53pm Hamas says that more than a hundred Palestinians have been killed since fighting between the proscribed terror group and

CAROLINE GLACHAN: Murder trial told four-year-old boy saw riverside fight
Caroline Glachan, 14, was found dead by the River Leven in 1996. Murder accused ‘threatened to batter schoolgirl’ before her death Teenager was unconscious but

Ban XL bully dogs before more people get hurt, says Tory MSP
By Bill Heaney Conservative justice spokesperson Russell Findlay, right, wants so-called bully dogs banned – and has urged the government to be quick about it.

VALE’S SCOTTISH CUP MEMORIES AND SATURDAY’S MATCH
Vale of Leven Football & Athletic Club It’s 55 years and 1 month since Vale last took on Auchinleck Talbot. On Saturday 19th October 1968

HOMELESSNESS: How do you fancy the idea of rough sleeping?
By Bill Heaney It’s really cold today but it’s going to be freezing and possibly even snowing over the weekend. So, how do you fancy

EDUCATION: Some young people are leaving school struggling to read and write
By Bill Heaney Are reading and writing skills amongst young people leaving school as bad as they are made out to be? Scottish Labour’s education

Celebrating Levengrove and all other parkruns around the world
Levengrove parkrun Were you one of the 133 who took part in our Inaugural Run on 7th December 2019? Or are you one of the

Levengrove junior parkrun
Levengrove junior parkrun Smashed it! Well done to all our amazing kids taking part Thanks to our wonderful volunteers too Happy Sunday!! The rain stayed

Scottish Covid bereaved refuse meeting with Humza Yousaf
Aamar Anwar lead solicitor for The Scottish Covid Bereaved made a short statement prior to the start of the Inquiry followed by bereaved relatives. By

In this week’s Tablet magazine …
In this week’s Tablet religion magazine … “Your editorial in the 25 November issue highlights the very evident lack of enthusiasm of (many) bishops for

Over 12,000 births in 2023: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde shares this year’s birth count
Over 12,000 births in 2023 NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde shares this year’s birth count The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Birth Register shows that

SCOTS NOW POORER THAN THEY WERE IN 2007
By Lucy Ashton New analysis by the House of Commons has shown that weekly real earnings are lower today than they were in 2007 when

LENNOX HERALD PUBLISHERS SURVIVAL IN DANGER, SAYS JOURNALISTS’ UNION
30 November 2023 NUJ letter says Reach must rethink its business plan which is endangering the company’s survival By Bill Heaney The directors and shareholders

Don Roberto: the Adventure of Being Cunninghame Graham
Don Roberto & Me Don Roberto: the Adventure of Being Cunninghame Graham Don Roberto And Me Dec 1 Now available direct from the publishers Scotland Street Press and

Legendary Scottish artist John Patrick Byrne has died at the age of 83
Slab Boys and Tutti Frutti writer and artist John Byrne dies aged 83 The Fine Art Society has announced that the Scottish artist and writer

LITTER: Public say litter emergency is worsening
By Lucy Ashton Nine in ten people in Scotland believe that litter is an issue across the country, an opinion that has continually grown for

Rhu and Shandon Community Council
Rhu and Shandon Community Council There is going to be a host of events happening in Rhu & Shandon on 1st December culminating in the

West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau
West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau Our advisers can help you deal with high energy bills. Last year, clients who saw a gain after seeking advice

VALEFLIX COMMUNITY CINEMA
Vale of Leven Trust SAVE THE DATE! Our Christmas showing is fast approaching! Come along to our Christmas showing of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”,

Sudden death on Sunday of ERIC WILSON
Vale of Leven Football & Athletic Club We were shocked to learn of the sudden death on Sunday of ERIC WILSON. Eric was well known

Community Memorial Christmas Tree
John Kane Funeral Directors We are delighted to announce that our Community Memorial Christmas Tree will once again be in place this December. Should you

LOCH KATRINE: Traditional New Year cruises on 1st and 2nd of January.
Loch Katrine With the return of Steamship Sir Walter Scott this summer after her restoration, we are delighted that she will be able to host

POLICE: Chief Constable calls for £128 MILLION to recruit 1,100 more officers
Scotland’s new chief of police Jo Farrell said that without the extra funding she wouldn’t be able to hire new recruits Chief Constable Jo Farrell

BAILLIE CLAIMS SHE WON SNP U-TURN ON ELDERLY SCREENING FOR BREAST CANCER
NOVEMBER 30, 2023 By Lucy Ashton Dame Jackie Baillie has declared a victory for older women after the SNP government back-tracked on their plans to

UNISON: Care staff forced to work shifts lasting 19 hours without breaks
A new report from UNISON highlights how care staff are propping up a crumbling care system and calls for the government to end the exploitation

When is it too cold to walk your dog?
Advice around walking dogs in low temperatures – how cold is too cold? With temperatures plummeting and snowy weather arriving, it’s important to keep your

Playpark plans progress in Argyll and Bute
Play-park plans progress By Lucy Ashton Plans to upgrade play park facilities across Argyll and Bute have taken another step forward. Argyll and Bute Council recently

WEST END HAIR CARE AT THE PHOENIX
The Phoenix December haircuts are now available book you spot quickly to avoid disappointment! https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/haircuts-with-diz-2288549…

BAILLIE URGES BANK OF SCOTLAND TO CONSULT ON KILCREGGAN BRANCH CLOSURE
By Lucy Ashton Dame Jackie Baillie has urged the Bank of Scotland to consult with local communities after they revealed that their Kilcreggan branch will

JACKIE BAILLIE WELCOMES JAMESTOWN MINISTER TO TIME FOR REFLECTION
By Lucy Ashton Jackie Baillie welcomed former Jamestown Parish Church minister the Rev Norma Moore, pictured above, to lead Time for Reflection at the Scottish

Pam Gosal tackling violence against women
Pam Gosal MSP I was honoured to contribute to the debate at the Scottish Parliament marking #16DaysOfActivism against Gender-Based Violence. I spoke about how our

Alistair Darling: Former Chancellor and Edinburgh South West MP dies aged 70
By Bill Heaney Former chancellor and veteran Labour politician Alistair Darling has died aged 70, a spokesperson on behalf of his family said. A statement

POLITICS: Matheson has ‘lost confidence of the country,’ says Tory leader
By Bill Heaney The SNP Government continued to back the “disgraced” health secretary Michael Matheson today, despite a poll showing the majority of Scots believe he

REMEMBER MARY’S MEALS THIS CHRISTMAS
Your kindness can go further DONATIONS WILL BE DOUBLED! Your donation will be matched meaning your gift can go even further. Dear Bill and all readers of

Shane MacGowan dead: The Pogues’ Fairytale of New York singer dies at 65
The Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan has died aged 65. The singer had been receiving care in St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin for an infection but

SPONSOR THE BALL AT SONS MATCH ON SATURDAY
Dumbarton Football Club

SOCIAL CARE WORKERS NEEDED
We’re recruiting social care workers – For more information call Stephen or Stallone on 01546 605513 choose option 6 between 9am-5pm Mon-Fri or email recruitmentwithincare@argyll-bute.gov.uk

TAXI DRIVER SAID HE SAW HOODED MAN WALKING BEHIND CAROLINE (updated)
Updated on November 30 at 11.30am By Democrat reporter Donna Marie Brand threatened to “batter” Caroline Glachan for going out with Robert O’Brien whom she

GLOVES ARE OFF AS LIBRARY PROTESTERS CONSULT LAWYERS OVER CLOSURE
Balloch library campaigners threaten to take Council to court By Bill Heaney Women, children and elderly residents of Balloch have written to politicians and taken

CHIVAS WORKERS TO GO ON STRIKE OVER FESTIVE SEASON
Trade unions warned the action could hit festive supplies of premier brands By Bill Heaney Hundreds of Dumbarton-based Scotch whisky production workers will take strike

POLITICS: Majority of Scots think Matheson should resign over £11,000 iPad data bill
By Bill Heaney I may have been wrong when I wrote in my Notebook column that I believed Michael Matheson, pictured right, should refuse to

BAILLIE: HEARTBREAKING DEATH TOLL REVEALS LOCAL HOUSING EMERGENCY
By Bill Heaney Homelessness is not new in West Dunbartonshire. People of a certain age will remember the Model lodging house in the old Artizan

Parents will feel blamed, sidelined and abandoned by new schools behaviour report
Published 28 November 2023 Good behaviour – the majority of pupils are behaving well in Scotland. By Bill Heaney Thousands of head teachers, teachers and

CAROLINE: It was likely that she sustained a minimum of ten blows to the head
Caroline was unconscious but alive when she entered water, murder trial told The body of 14-year-old Caroline Glachan was discovered in the river Leven on

CARERS DAY IN WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE
Carers of West Dunbartonshire Wow, what a great day we’ve had! A HUGE thank you to all the amazing organisations who joined us for today’s

CHAMPAGNE: TASTE THE DIFFERENCE AT LIDL
£14 supermarket champagne voted ‘better than Moet’ LIDL supermarket champagne has been voted ‘better than Moet’ in a blind taste test. By Rosalind Erskine in

LOMOND RADIO: Come and see Santa and his elves
LOMOND RADIO EVENT Santa is a busy man at this time of year but he’s making a stop at Balloch Community Fire Station on Sunday

GET SWITCHED ON FOR RHU LIGHTS
Join the Rhu Inn after the Rhu Christmas Lights Switch-on for a mega festive party! Mulled wine, live music by Mark Kyle and your favourite

HOUSING: Plans approved to boost affordable housing in Argyll and Bute
By Aileen Maclennan and Bill Heaney Ambitious plans to build hundreds of new affordable homes across Argyll and Bute have been unveiled as part of

LANGUAGES: Wee yins stravaig their richts in Scots wi new buik
Young children explore their richts in Scots with new book Children’s Commissioner Nicola Killean launched a new illustrated book in Scots on human rights for

HEALTH: Be prepared for winter ailments and use NHS 24’s digital tools to help you
NHS 24 has launched its annual winter health preparedness campaign with Michael Matheson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care. The ‘Healthy Know

SECRET SCOTLAND: Secretive SNP block FOI reform and Labour bans Democrat
By Lucy Ashton Scottish Liberal Democrats today said the SNP Government “is wedded to secrecy” after ministers announced that they will not introduce any primary

Homeless deaths emergency a reflection of failed policies
By Lucy Ashton Responding to new figures that an estimated 244 people died while homeless in 2022, with drug misuse accounting for over a third

NHS CRISIS CONTINUES AS MATHESON CASE RUMBLES ON
By Bill Heaney Scottish Labour has called again today for Health Secretary Michael Matheson to go as NHS waiting lists hit another record high. By

CAROLINE GLACHAN MURDER TRIAL IN THE HIGH COURT
Caroline Glachan was found dead in the River Leven, Renton, Dunbartonshire on August 25, 1996. By Democrat reporter A Bonhill teenager found dead 27 years

FOOTBALL: Put the names faces of these young players
Local football history A picture from Bill Adam. Main Street Primary School. Russell Cup winners 1961. Back row: Mr Crichton (janitor / team manager), Peter

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: SCROOGE DOESN’T HAVE A LOOK IN AT THE COUNCIL
By Bill Heaney Christmas in the Poorhouse. That is the prospect for 2023 for the residents of West Dunbartonshire. Local people are fizzing at the

Helensburgh Community Hub WINTER FESTIVAL
Helensburgh Community Hub Join us on the Winter Festival weekend for some festive fun! On Saturday 9th from 10am-1pm we will have supercheap stocking filler

SHOPPING: Loch Lomond Shores night market
Loch Lomond Shores Get ready for Christmas! The SHS Events Night Market at Loch Lomond Shores returns on the 23rd November and 7th December. Lots

Lomond Radio: FUND-RAISER FOR Beatson Cancer Charity
Lomond Radio November Would you like to GO along to their Fundraiser on Saturday 9th December? They’ve got a limited number of tickets remaining and

Find out more about hosting a corporate event at Ardoch, Loch Lomond
November 2023 New blog alert!! If you want to find out more about hosting a corporate event at Ardoch and the benefits for your business

Carer’s Allowance Supplement will be paid on Friday 8 December
Social Security Scotland November 27 Carer’s Allowance Supplement will be paid on Friday 8 December. The payment of £270.50 will be made automatically to people who

Free festive off-street parking for Argyll and Bute
Free festive off-street parking for Argyll and Bute To help support local businesses and encourage local spending, all council off-street pay and display parking will

VICTORY AT LAST FOR DAVID: Discriminated UK and foreign lecturers receive 5.4 million euro payout
Dumbarton man David Petrie at heart of case to end discrimination in Italy. NOVEMBER 2023 Discriminated UK and foreign lecturers receive 5.4 million euro payout

Levelling up funding announcement of £20 million for Argyll and Bute
By Aileen Maclennan Argyll and Bute is one of a small number of council areas in Scotland to receive levelling up funding – £20 million

Monty’s Farm Park: CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE
Monty’s Farm Park Thank you soooo much to everyone who has donated to our toy drive to help the collect by Food for Thought Dumbarton

LIBRARIES: IT’S FUN FIRST IN HELENSBURGH
Fun First Did you paint as Christmas Bauble with us at Pitter Patter Potter? Great news! I have received them and will have them at

The Tower Digital Arts Centre: What’s on at the movies
The Tower Digital Arts Centre Dream Scenario (15) is a comedy. It screens @ 2.00pm. French film La Petite Bande continues our French season. It’s

Bellsmyre Development Trust: WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK
Bellsmyre Development Trust Come along and see us this week Bellsmyre Development Trust Still spaces to come along and party with us TOP OF PAGE

SEWAGE: Sepa pensions invested in oil and sewage-dumping water firm
FERRET INVESTIGATION by PAUL DOBSON Pensions for Scotland’s environment agency are invested in fossil fuel giants and an English water company that spilled more sewage

BAILLIE WELCOMES REMOVAL OF HEALTH BOARD CHAIR FROM ADVISORY ROLE
Local health board chairperson John Brown, Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie and Jane Grant. By Bill Heaney Jackie Baillie has welcomed the news that outgoing chair of

Police promise large-scale arrests of Dublin riot ringleaders and participants
Drew Harris under pressure to make progress in inquiry into violence which followed stabbing of schoolchildren Expand Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has been asked to

Search ongoing for hiker missing for more than a year
James Clacher was last seen about 17 months ago – with his car being found in Loch Longside car park By Lucy Ashton People have

Caroline Glachan: Three on trial over 1996 murder of schoolgirl
Caroline Glachan’s body was found on the banks of the River Leven in August 1996 By Democrat reporter Three people have gone on trial accused

Deadline urged for end of Matheson inquiry
Monday 27 November 2023 Tory chairman Craig Hoy and Health Secretary Michael Matheson — end this now. By Bill Heaney The Scottish Parliament has today

Council initiatives which will help residents with the cost of living crisis
Published 27 November 2023 By Lucy Ashton A varied programme of events in welcoming warm spaces is available for residents during the colder months, as

DUMBARTON DRAWN AGAINST RANGERS IN SCOTTISH CUP
DUMBARTON 5 Annan Athletic 4 Picture special by Jon Leino SONS WIN MEMORABLE CUP TIE News Scottish Cup Dumbarton advanced into the fourth round of the

WOMEN ‘FAILED’ BY SNP AS HYSTERECTOMY WAITING TIMES SOAR POST-PANDEMIC
NOVEMBER 27 By Lucy Ashton Women are being failed by the SNP, Scottish Labour has said today, after rapidly expanding waiting times for a hysterectomy has

Dublin riots aftermath: You’ll never see eye-to-eye with someone who thinks you’re an animal
Opinion Why destroy your own city? Because it doesn’t feel like it belongs to you, you don’t feel welcome in it, writes Adam Doyle, the

Who are the hostages released from Gaza and what do we know about them?
Sunday 26 November 2023, 6:40pm Emily Hand, a released hostage, reunites with her father.Credit: AP via Israeli Military Hamas and Israel have now exchanged three

Emily Hand, 9, feared dead in Hamas attack is reunited with father
Sunday 26 November 2023 Emily Hand, who was originally feared dead, is among the latest hostages to be freed by Hamas and has been reunited

Christmas Markets launch in West End this weekend
West End will be transformed into a festive wonderland … By Declan McConville in Lost Glasgow Vinicombe Street is set to be transformed into a

Clyde 1 Christmas Card Competition.
Clyde 1 Congratulations to wee 10 year old Jessica from Gavinburn Primary in Old Kilpatrick who is the winner of our Clyde 1 Christmas Card

Clifden event to honour Brendan Flynn for contribution to arts, culture and education
By Bill Heaney The Connemara Chamber of Commerce is to honour Brendan Flynn at a special event in Clifden this weekend Brendan Flynn founded

Rape survivor wins campaign to reveal offenders at universities
By Lucy Ashton A campaigner has welcomed a new policy at Scottish universities requiring students offered places to declare violent criminal charges. Rape survivor Ellie

Free parking for Christmas shoppers in Helensburgh
There will be free parking at all Helensburgh’s council-run car parks in the run-up to Christmas, it was announced this week. Argyll and Bute Council

The Pawn Customer Christmas Party
The Pawn Customer Christmas Party Vale of Leven Trust The Pawn Customer Christmas Party The Pawn have generously announced that they will donate their Christmas

Barlinnie prison inmate on roof of jail ‘throwing slates at officers’
Barlinnie prison, where today a prisoner has escaped to the roof and is throwing down slates. More on this later …

ALL LIT UP: GEORGE SQUARE IS LOOKING SPECTACULAR THIS CHRISTMAS
George Square is looking spectacular in its festive guise Photos from Brian McGinley

HELLO THERE CHINA: BE-JINGLE BELLS NO MORE FOR ANGUS
By Bill Heaney SNP Minister Angus Robertson’s trip to China, has come under fire from the LibDems. News of it was released without any mention

CHRISTMAS TREES: Ardardan Farm Shop, Garden Nursery & Tearoom
Ardardan Farm Shop, Garden Nursery & Tearoom Our Saturday supplier shout out this week has to go to our most seasonal of all products…..yup Christmas

Food For Thought – West Dunbartonshire
Food For Thought – West Dunbartonshire Bring Joy to Children in Need this Christmas Support Our Foodbank’s Toy Drive As the holiday season approaches, our

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
English Literature Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening BY ROBERT FROST Whose woods these are I think I know. His house is in the

Oban Christmas Lights Switch 2023
Oban Christmas Lights Switch 2023 Santa returned to Oban complete with his reindeers on Saturday. Starting at the Corran halls, he will travelled down George Street

NOTEBOOK: It’s time to close the book on these embarrassing episodes
Jo Farrell has apologised for ‘error of judgement’ after requesting a car to drive her home just weeks into her new role NOTEBOOK by BILL

SONS BEAT ANNAN IN NINE-GOAL CUP THRILLER
ANNAN ATHLETIC 4 DUMBARTON 5 𝑮𝑨𝑴𝑬𝑫𝑨𝒀 And we’re up for the cup!

Loch Long torpedo testing facility could be used for tourism
By Lucy Ashton Plans are afoot to transform a derelict Ministry of Defence site on the banks of Loch Long into a tourist destination. Developer Ardnagal Estates Ltd

Banned Green Brigade at Celtic Park today
Banned Green Brigade turned up at Celtic Park before Motherwell game Green Brigade: Fans congregated on Celtic Way. By Peter Cassidy Banned supporters group The

Helensburgh Community Hub
Helensburgh Community Hub

Loch Lomond Shores is feeling festive at Loch Lomond Shores
It’s only ONE WEEK to go until our Loch Lomond Shores #ChristmasFestival and we have a HUGE lineup of fabulous stallholders coming along! For everyone

NOW THAT’S OK FOR NEIGHBOURS IN VILLAGE STREET
By Lucy Ashton Old Kilpatrick won big this week as several community members had their postcode pulled in the People’s Postcode Lottery netting them at

Art school fire paintings shortlisted for top award
The drawings depict the fire which destroyed the Mackintosh building. By Pauline McLean, BBC Scotland arts correspondent Three watercolour paintings depicting the fire that destroyed

Taxpayers ‘robbed’ by over-budget ferries – Labour peer
The second ferry being built by Ferguson Shipyard, Glen Rosa, is still on the slipway By Lucy Ashton The construction of two delayed and overbudget

BONHILL WIND FARM: Information Days which are open to all residents and groups
Lomond Radio tells us that Coriolis Energy has submitted plans for the Vale of Leven Wind Farm to the Scottish Government. The company is holding

The History of Whisky in the Scottish Highlands
The History of Whisky in the Scottish Highlands: From the earliest documented references to distilling in the 15th century, to its influence on popular culture today,

BENEFITS INCREASE WELCOME BUT PEOPLE FACE A “TRAP DOOR”
West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau Responding to the Autumn Statement, Citizens Advice Scotland’s Social Justice spokesperson Erica Young said: “Increasing benefits in line with inflation

LABOUR RELEASE UN REPORT FINDINGS ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS
25TH NOVEMBER 2023 Scottish Labour MSPs Pauline McNeill and Katy Clark. By Bill Heaney Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against

VALE OF LEVEN TRUST
If you would like to join us you can book by emailing us at info@valeofleventrust.com, calling us on 01389 752629 or pop by and see

SNP-GREEN GOVERNMENT TEAMS UP WITH TORIES TO FAIL DISABLED YOUNG PEOPLE
By Pam Duncan-Glancy, Scottish Labour education spokesperson Today the SNP-Green Government teamed up with the Tories to deny young disabled people a fighting chance at a

Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire
Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire We are at the Scottish Police Federation awards at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh where we are celebrating bravery, Courage, and

SARWAR WELCOMES REMOVAL OF NHSGGC CHAIR FROM ADVISORY ROLE
Labour leader Anas Sarwar, Health Board CEO Jane Grant and retiring chairman John Brown. By Bill Heaney Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar was welcomed the

What’s On This Weekend?
What’s On This Weekend? Fri 24th -TONIGHT – 7-9.30pm – Stirling Distillery Monthly Cocktail Masterclass is on tonight! You will be given a welcome cocktail

BOOKS: HAPPY BIRTHDAY Billy Connolly
Happy birthday, Billy. Bet you got loads of pressies. And a few books. We would love you to help us with a library problem. All

LEVENGROVE SANTA DASH: SIGN UP NOW
Ben View We are now on the count down to Santa Dash. 9 days to go !!!! You can sign up until Thursday at 4pm on

Scotgold: Scotland’s only goldmine goes into administration
Share Scotgold failed to secure new investment after talks broke down earlier this month By Bill Heaney BBC Scotland is reporting that the owners of

BAILLIE: ‘UNEXPECTED HONOUR’ AFTER BEING NAMED SCOTTISH POLITICIAN OF THE YEAR
By Bill Heaney Dame Jackie Baillie has reacted to the ‘unexpected honour’ of being named the Herald’s Scottish Politician of the Year. At a ceremony

Alex Salmond launches legal action against Scottish government for £3 million
By Bill Heaney BBC Scotland is reporting that former first minister Alex Salmond has launched a fresh legal case against the Scottish government. Mr Salmond

Hamas to release Israeli hostages as temporary ceasefire begins
Friday 24 November 2023 at 9:50am ITV News Reporter David Harper outlines the latest developments as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas begins A four-day

DUBLIN RIOTS: Shops damaged and garda vehicles destroyed in night of disorder
Updated • a minute ago Live 34 arrests, 13 shops damaged and garda vehicles destroyed in night of disorder Two children, including five-year-old girl, and their

DUBLIN CITY CHAOS: Girl, 5, receiving emergency treatment after knife attack
Updated / Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 19:56 By Paul Reynolds, Crime Correspondent, RTE NEWS A five-year-old child and a woman in her 30s are in a

West Dunbartonshire Community Foodshare
Yo ho,ho,ho … For the past few years, Aggreko, Dumbarton, has been a wonderful support to the Charity, with fundraising, donating food, toys and uniforms,

Ballet pupil thought she had found her Prince Charming, court told
The trial is taking place at Dumbarton Sheriff Court. Above: Ballet West in Argyll. By Lucy Ashton A woman has told a trial that it

MICHAEL MATHESON CASE GOES TO VAR FOR FINAL VERDICT
Tory leader Douglas Ross and First Minister Humza Yousaf. By Bill Heaney Get the broomsticks and pointy hats out. A witch hunt is officially underway

Money gap with top clubs ‘getting bigger’ – Celtic chairman Lawwell at AGM
By Lucy Ashton Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell has told the club’s annual general meeting the financial gap with Europe’s top clubs is “getting bigger”. In

Family hoping Emily Hand on list of Gaza hostages set to be freed from Friday
Emily Hand’s family do not know if Israeli-Irish child will be among hostages who are due for release Hamas will release dozens of hostages being

Conservative giveaway to big banks set to cost taxpayers £22 billion
By Lucy Ashton The Lib Dems are calling on the Chancellor to reverse Conservative tax cuts to the banks, as the party’s analysis of new

SNP desperate to save their jobs and willing to say anything to cling on to power …
By ANAS SARWAR, Scottish Labour leader In the short time Humza Yousaf has been First Minister, the record

NOTEBOOK: This was an honest mistake caused by an embarrassing episode
Thursday 23 November 2023 By Bill Heaney A man who never made a mistake never made a discovery… These were wise words from Samuel Smiles.

Plans approved to boost affordable housing in Argyll and Bute
By Aileen Maclennan Ambitious plans to build hundreds of new affordable homes across Argyll and Bute, which includes Cardross, Helensburgh and the Rosneath Peninsula, have

Carers Scotland report paints a stark picture of carers buckling under the strain
By Bill Heaney Unpaid carers are struggling to look after family members and friends and relatives who require their services when no care homes, hospital

MSP CALLS FOR FAIR AND EQUAL ACCESS TO DIABETES TECHNOLOGY
22 NOVEMBER 2023 Dame Jackie Baillie has urged the SNP Government to make the roll-out of diabetes technology a priority for those living with the

Scotland’s only oil refinery to shut with hundreds of jobs at risk
The only operating crude oil refinery in Scotland, and one of only six remaining in the UK, supplies 80 per cent of the country’s fuel

ENVIRONMENT: Loch Lomond National Park moves closer to Net Zero
By Elaine Brewer Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority is taking an important step forwards on its journey to Net Zero, with a

Working people are worse off under this Tory government, says Sarwar
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MONEY: National Living Wage rise boost of £1,800 to average annual earnings
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BAILLIE URGES SNP TO ACT NOW AS CANCER REFERRALS SOAR
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GREAT NEWS FROM MARY’S MEALS IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS
Your donation matched! Great news Bill DONATIONS ARE DOUBLED! We have incredible news! From today until 22 January 2024, every donation made to our

MONEY: Community groups invited to bid for council funding
By Lucy Ashton Community groups are being invited to bid for cash grants to support projects which will benefit West Dunbartonshire communities. A total of

MODERATOR: Prayers remain deeply concerned for all this appalling situation
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Matheson ‘wasn’t interested’ in football teams sons streamed on iPad for £11,000
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Politicians urge UK Government to rule out duty increases on whisky
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MCMONAGLE’S FISH AND CHIP SHIP WINS TOP AWARD
McMonagle’s Boat Still so proud of our team winning this award !! We’ve had such a busy weekend. Thanks everyone for your support xxx

CHRISTMAS DAY IN THE POORHOUSE AS LABOUR COUNCIL PUTS THE LIGHTS OUT
Lennox Herald It’s old news really, and it’s certainly not good news. The Lennox Herald is clinging to its position as the leading local newspaper

Food For Thought – West Dunbartonshire
Food For Thought – West Dunbartonshire See Poster for Information

Health Secretary Michael Matheson and that £11,000 ‘iPad scandal’
NOTEBOOK by BILL HEANEY Billy Connolly once described the then brand new Scottish Parliament as “a pretendy wee parliament”. The Big Yin said it was

TIME TO TALK TURKEY WITH BELL CENTRE BUTCHERS
Bell Centre Butchers Dumbarton We are limited to the amount of WHOLE turkeys we have available this year so if this is what you are

Shop local this Christmas and help save your small local busineses
Jimmy’s Cards & Gifts Shop local this Christmas and help save your small local towns

West Dunbartonshire Libraries is feeling festive
West Dunbartonshire Libraries is feeling festive Dumbarton library are once again helping West Dunbartonshire Community Foodshare make Christmas special for local families. The ‘Giving Tree’ has pride

Community Councils Scotland: Planning advice
Community Councils Scotland Last chance to sign up! Community councillors can join our free webinar with Planning Aid Scotland on 21 November and learn more

LET THEM EAT CAKE! SPECIAL OFFER FOR SONS FANS
The Sons, Rock & Rolls THERE’S NO BETTER CHRISTMAS GIFT THAN THE GIFT OF CAKE If you are struggling for gift ideas and looking for

Health Board launches winter campaign – and it’s as easy as ABC
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ROOSKITCHEN’S VEGGIE NIGHT FOR WEEKLY BISTRO
Calling all vegans & vegetarians!! This Friday we are hosting an all vegan and veggie menu for our weekly bistro night! And we need you!

SOCIAL CARE IN CRISIS: Nearly one in five care homes close (updated)
Crosslet House, Dalreoch House, Willox Park Home, and Townend ‘Poorhouse’ Hospital. By Bill Heaney The Scottish Government have been urged to scrap their plans for

CHURCH AND STATE TO MEET AT WESTMINSTER
Archbishop Leo Cushley, Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh, Archbishop William Nolan, Archbishop of Glasgow, Bishop John Keenan, Bishop of Paisley and Bishop Joseph Toal,

Man accused of impersonating nurse at children’s hospital
A man will go on trial accused of pretending to be a nurse with fake uniform and forged ID at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital

A Tale of Two Protests: Scottish journalist reports from Washington
Left: Supporters of Israel gather in solidarity with Israel and protest against antisemitism on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., November 14, 2023. Right: Protesters

Forests dominated by estates, investors and absentee owners, says report
FERRET INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM Author: Jamie Mann Ownership of Scotland’s forests is becoming increasingly dominated by wealthy estates, investors and absentee owners who live outwith Scotland,

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IZZY GETS BUSY AS ROYAL NAVY CELEBRATES A SENSE OF DUTY
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Jacqueline Rose on violence and its origins
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Israel-Hamas war: Heavy fighting erupts around hospital in northern Gaza
Israeli shelling ‘kills at least 12’ at Indonesian Hospital, while 28 premature babies are taken across the border into Egypt Egyptian medics stand by with

SCOTTISH LABOUR AMENDMENT TO CEASEFIRE DEBATE
By Bill Heaney Tomorrow in the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Labour will vote for an immediate ceasefire. Scottish Labour will also add to the SNP motion

Mental health support group celebrated as Provost’s Citizen of the Year
Published 20 November 2023 By Lucy Ashton A support group tackling the stigma around men’s mental health by offering safe spaces and activities around West

Jagtar Singh Johal’s family appeal to Lord Cameron for his release
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Royal Navy nuclear sub plunges warship into ‘danger zone’
DEEP TROUBLE Worst Royal Navy disaster since World War Two was averted at last minute … Published: 22:00, 19 Nov 2023 A ROYAL Navy nuclear sub

Only one in seven GPs has sufficient access to mental health staff
A survey of GPs found just 13% have sufficient access to urgent care while 29% said the same as pharmacy staff The study was carried

BALLOCH LIBRARY: CHILDREN ENJOY A LAST HURRAH BEFORE COUNCIL CLOSE IT
Children from the St Kessog’s section of the Balloch Schools Campus enjoying themselves in the now doomed Balloch Library which is set to be closed

Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza says more than 12,300 people have been killed
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IT’S GEY CAULD FOR GOING OOT HERE THE NOO
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Vale of Leven Trust is in Alexandria: BOOK YOUR MEN’S DAY BIKE RIDE
Vale of Leven Trust is in Alexandria Here’s what’s coming up this week! Look forward to seeing you all at the Elvis Tribute on Saturday (uh-huh )!

Israel-Gaza war: Glasgow protesters march for immediate ceasefire
By Democrat reporter BBC Scotland News is reporting that thousands of people have attended a pro-Palestinian rally in Glasgow to demand an immediate ceasefire in

Dumbarton Community Action Group West End Survey
The Phoenix Our partners in the Dumbarton Community Action Group would love to get your opinion on our area. The survey only takes a couple

Loch Lomond Shores is at Loch Lomond Shores TODAY
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Book Week Scotland: Find a Silver Ticket
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Monty’s Farm Park at Ardardan
Monty’s Farm Park Our animals are mega excited for Festive Fun on the Farm! Sessions for December are still available to book on our website:

GOING TO THE DPT PANTO? OH YES YOU ARE!
Tickets are on sale now for the Dumbarton People’s Theatre Pantomime, Pirates of the River Leven, at the Denny Civic Theatre from Saturday 2nd December

SIMPLY SCRUMPTIOUS AT ROO’S KITCHEN
Roo’s Kitchen Plans for today? No? Well come down and join us for brunch! Served all day from 9am-2.45pm! Full cake cabinet! Including the very

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Local artists displaying and selling lots of awesome and mega well priced work in our garden this weekend (thankfully under cover!). Ardardan Farm Shop, Garden

‘World’s most sought-after’ whisky sells for record £2.2m at auction
Macallan Adami 1926 sold at Sotheby’s in London after a bidding war between would-be buyers on the phone and in the room Auction: Just 40
Vale of Leven u20’s: MINDTHEMEN CAMPAIGN
We are delighted that for the 2023/24 season we will display a banner for MindtheMen at all home games. MindtheMen are a suicide prevention peer

Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire
Vulnerable road users and pedestrians, can you be seen? Can you judge the distance of oncoming vehicles from you correctly? Use crossings when available or

Hundreds leave Gaza’s al-Shifa hospital as many feared killed at UN shelter
Al-Shifa evacuees flee amid gunfire, with IDF tanks on the move By Oliver Slow, BBC News Hundreds of people including some patients left Gaza City’s

‘Starvation and disease’ stalk Gaza as fuel shortages block aid
Israel-Palestine conflict: Published on November 17 2023 UN aid deliveries to Gaza are suspended again due to shortages of fuel and a communications shutdown Gaza

National Park Authority Board prioritises climate and nature action
By Lucy ASHTON Colin Lee, an equalities champion with 30 years’ experience, has been appointed to the Board of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National

MARY’S MEALS: Join Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow at our Glasgow Christmas Market
November 17/2023 We look forward to seeing you there Bill you’re invited! Glasgow 25 and 26 November Get your free Christmas Market tickets With

ICONIC SCOTCH WHISKY INDUSTRY WILL BE ‘BACKED TO THE HILT’ BY LABOUR
Sir Keith Starmer on a tour of a whisky distillery this week. By J.P. McHugh Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party has today

Cardross is feeling festive for Christmas
Come along to our Christmas Fair next Friday 24th November, 6pm-8pm and get in the Christmas spirit with crafts and games for the kids. Be

PAY RISE FOR CARE WORKERS IS NOT ENOUGH, SAYS DAME JACKIE BAILLIE
By Bill Heaney Care workers’ champion Dame Jackie Baillie, Labour’s health spokesperson in the Scottish Parliament, has told the First Minister that the social care

HOSPITAL DEATHS: SARWAR HEALTH BOARD BOSSES SHOULD BE SACKED
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Michael Matheson says sons used iPad data to watch Celtic v Rangers match
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Cole-Hamilton challenges First Minister on dangerous concrete in fire stations
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BOOKS: A HISTORY OF RUGBY IN LEINSTER BY DAVID DOOLIN
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FOOTBALL: BOYS IN BLUE ARE IN THE BLACK AT LAST
Rangers announce slight annual profit and focus on more transfer market success Last updated on 13 November 2023 By Lucy Ashton Rangers have announced an

SONS FANS REMEMBER POPPY DAY AT EAST FIFE
Dumbarton FC fans marked Remembrance Day as well as celebrating victory over East Fife at Methil in Fife. Pictures by Jon Leino

FLYNN SAYS GAZA IS an open-air prison being turned into a graveyard
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn. By Bill Heaney SNP leader Stephen Flynn told the House of Commons yesterday that in

Labour frontbenchers defy Starmer to back Commons vote for a ceasefire
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Matheson’s data usage in Morocco is utterly jaw-dropping, says Tory
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First Minister accused by Labour leader of ‘secrecy and evasion’
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TRANSPARENCY: HAUD YER WHEESHT, IT’S SECRET SCOTLAND YOU’RE IN NOW
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BALLOCH LIBRARY: BAILLIE REFUSES TO INTERVENE AGAINST CLOSURE
By Bill Heaney Dame Jackie Baillie appears to have accepted the closure of Balloch Library by her Labour colleagues on West Dunbartonshire Council. Asked by

Pupils take the wheel in tackling inconsiderate parking outside school
15 November 2023 By Lucy Ashton Pupils at Hermitage Primary are advocating for safer streets and a greener environment at their school by launching a campaign

Contact lost with health staff at Gaza’s al-Shifa hospital, WHO says
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 Israel Defence Force says it is ‘carrying out a precise and targeted operation’ against Hamas By Helen Sullivan in The Irish

Supreme Court says plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda is unlawful
Wednesday 15 November 2023 Not only is it immoral, unworkable and incredibly costly for taxpayers – but the Supreme Court has confirmed that it’s unlawful

CAMPAIGN: SAY NO TO A NEW LIBRARY AT BALLOCH PRIMARY SCHOOL CAMPUS
By the Editor If West Dunbartonshire Council refuses point blank to speak to The Democrat and continues to defy the residents of Balloch, Jamestown, Haldane

UKRAINE: What’s the real figure for refugees who arrived here?
By Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has today asked the Scottish Government to justify claims made by the First Minister that more

Suella Braverman accuses Rishi Sunak of betrayal in scathing resignation letter
Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has accused Rishi Sunak of repeatedly failing to deliver on key policies. BBC News at Six is reporting that in

Seven convicted of rape and sexual assault as part of child abuse ring
The trial at the High Court in Glasgow is believed to have been the largest prosecution of a child sex abuse ring in Scotland. By

Gaza’s largest hospital ‘no longer functioning’, says World Health Organisation
Those trapped inside al-Shifa hospital reject Israel’s claims that it helped babies and others evacuate Palestinians injured in Israeli raids at Nasser Medical Hospital in

PHILISTINE COUNCIL PRESSES AHEAD WITH BALLOCH LIBRARY CLOSURE
All we want for Christmas is for our libraries to stay open … By Lucy Ashton West Dunbartonshire Libraries are feeling creative. When you see what’s

FUN AND SHOPPING: Loch Lomond and Helensburgh is feeling festive
By Lucy Ashton You just have to Love Loch Lomond – and Helensburgh too, of course. There are loads of Christmas Markets and Festivals this

MILLY: Probe could lead to criminal charges or a fatal accident inquiry
Milly Main’s mother believes she will get justice over hospital death Milly Main died after contracting an infection at the Royal Hospital for Children. By

HOSPITAL BOARD CHAIR PROMISES CO-OPERATION WITH POLICE INQUIRY
NHSGGC Annual Review 2022/23 The 2022/23 Annual Review of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde took place yesterday (13 November 2023) in the Queen Elizabeth University

PETS: Avoid becoming a victim of fraud when searching for your next pet
Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire Puppies and cats are not just for Christmas, but should you be looking for one for a child or

Royal Mail fined £5.6 million for ‘significant’ delivery target failures
Ofcom said that, even after taking circumstances into account, Royal Mail fell short of its targets by a ‘significant and unexplained margin’ By Lucy Ashton

Ardardan Farm Shop, Garden Nursery & Tearoom
Ardardan Farm Shop, Garden Nursery & Tearoom Looking for Christmas presents with a truly “local” touch to them? Then take a trip to Ardardan which

Matheson to face no-confidence vote unless he hands over iPad, say MSPs
Tuesday 14 November 2023 By Bill Heaney The Scottish Conservatives have today issued an ultimatum to embattled health secretary Michael Matheson: hand over your iPad

DAME JACKIE BAILLIE SWEARS TO BACK UNDER PRESSURE SHOP WORKERS
By Lucy Ashton Dame Jackie Baillie has given her backing to shopworkers at the start of trade union Usdaw’s Respect for Shopworkers Week. The latest

A&E DISARRAY: MATHESON MUST ‘HANG HEAD IN SHAME’
By Bill Heaney Embattled Health Secretary Michael Matheson must ‘hang his head in shame’, Scottish Labour has said today, as the worst weekly A&E statistics

RHU CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON
Rhu and Shandon Community Council The Rhu Christmas Lights Switch On Event is happening! Keep your eyes on this page for: The Christmas Lights Switch

West Highland Line closed north of Arrochar as heavy rain arrives
Closure comes as parts West of Scotland has again been hit by torrential rain in wake of Storm Debi Storm Debi stop press: Network Rail

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: BALLOCH LIBRARY CLOSURE
Good afternoon Mr Heaney, This is just a short email about the closure of the Balloch Library. I know that you are aware of

Friends of Loch Lomond support Loch Sloy power station conversion
By Lucy Ashton Members of a Loch Lomond environmental group have voiced their “enthusiastic” support of the redevelopment of Loch Sloy power station, north of

VIVA ESPANA: LOVELY LOCHSIDE SINGER LIV TAKES A BREAK IN THE SIERRAS
By Bill Heaney Loch Lomondside singer songwriter Liv Dawn, aka Olivia Haggarty, and her friend Sophia Baverstock, enjoyed a much-needed break from her busy schedule

EAST FIFE 0 DUMBARTON 1 AT METHIL: PICTURE SPECIAL BY JON LEINO
SONS WIN AT EAST FIFE cinch League 2 A first-half goal from Kalvin Orsi was enough for Dumbarton to earn three points against East Fife

Time SNP minister stopped trying to justify prison ‘mismanagement’
Angela Constance (right) is “all over the place” says Russell Findlay (left) By Lucy Ashton Justice Secretary Angela Constance has been told her government are “guilty

MOVIES: The Tower Digital Arts Centre in Helensburgh
By Lucy Ashton Bonjour de la Tour! Starting from this Friday 17th November, We are delighted to bring you a great selection of 4 movies

Scottish Enterprise criticised over human rights checks
By Billy Briggs in The Ferret Hundreds of human rights checks have been made on companies seeking grants from Scottish Enterprise since 2019, and no

£4.3 million success for Welfare Rights Team
By Aileen Maclennan Vulnerable people in Argyll and Bute accessed more than £4.3 million of additional income in 2022/23 thanks to the council’s Welfare Rights

PAVEMENT PARKING NO MORE
By Lucy Ashton A new driving fine is coming into force next month that can land motorists a £100 fine. Drivers in some areas will not

Yousaf and Robison under pressure over WhatsApp scandal
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VALE OF LEVEN MARKS REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 2023
Three parliamentarians, the Lord Lieutenant and the Provost of West Dunbartonshire turned out for a parade and Remembrance Day service at Christie Park in Alexandria

Braverman sacked as Cameron makes shock return to government
Monday 13 November 2023 at 10:20am Suella Braverman has been sacked as home secretary and David Cameron has been appointed foreign secretary. ITV News is

DUNBARTONSHIRE’S FALLEN REMEMBERED AT LEVENGROVE CENOTAPH
Democrat picture special by BILL HEANEY

Local NHS board named in hospital corporate homicide probe
Milly Main died after contracting an infection at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital campus. Her mother, Kimberley Darroch, is pictured here with Labour leader Anas

LOUSY LABOUR SLAMS DOOR IN FACE OF BALLOCH PROTESTERS (updated)
NOTEBOOK by BILL HEANEY Sleekit. The Labour Group on West Dunbartonshire Council can only be described as such after their decision last night to carry

HEALTH: Over half of Scotland’s hospitals have not been inspected in the past five years
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NAVAL BASE PERSONNEL GATHER FOR REMEMBRANCE SERVICE
By Democrat reporter MILITARY and civilian personnel at HMNB Clyde came together this week and paused to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Over

STOP THE KILLING: Home Secretary’s position is untenable. She must resign
Violent far-right protesters arrested around Cenotaph: Palestine supporters stay peaceful Saturday 11 November 2023 Police have arrested 126 people in an effort to contain disorder

PALESTINE-ISRAELI WAR REPORTS FROM THE MIDDLE EAST
BBC News and news agencies are reporting … Demonstrators gathered at the Museum of Art in Tel Aviv Many held posters with details of of

RELIGION: Pope Francis fires bishop who criticised reforms
By Malu Cursino BBC News Pope Francis has fired the Texan bishop Joseph Strickland, a fierce critic who has questioned the Pope’s leadership of the

Celtic: We shall not be moved. Green Brigade plan ‘day of action’ if dispute not resolved
10 November 2023 The Green Brigade plan to hold a “day of action” at Celtic Park if their dispute with the club is not “satisfactorily

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL AT LOMOND SHORES
Picture by Heather Greer Festival will feature a great range of stalls Enjoy the SHS Events Christmas Festival at Loch Lomond Shores on Saturday 2nd

PARK RUN: LEVENGROVE RUNNERS BRAVE THE AUTUMN CHILL
Levengrove parkrun Huge thanks again to Wilson, one of our core team members for another great run report Run Report Event Number 124 – 11th

SNOW AND FOG ON BEN LOMOND THIS MORNING
Low cloud surrounds Duncryne Hill, Gartocharn, with Ben Lomond dominating the background with just a small dusting of snow on its summit today (Friday). Photo

MONKFISH: NOTHING FISHY GOING ON IN WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE
By Bill Heaney Those of you, such as some West Dunbartonshire Council officials who enjoy fine dining and a glass or two of wine in

SCOTTISH WATER: Planned pay cut to the lowest-paid workers is flagrant breach of fair work principles
By Bill Heaney Former Labour leader Richard Leonard has told the Scottish Parliament that Scottish Water workers are angry over pay talks and that industrial

CashBack for Communities supported 28,000 young people over last year
By Lucy Ashton A unique programme funded from seized criminal assets has helped to provide new opportunities for more than 28,000 young people in the

SARWAR: Legal advice from Government has been almost entirely redacted
By Bill Heaney Legal advice from the Scottish Government to the UK Covid 19 inquiry has been kept under wraps and seriously edited, the Holyrood

SPORT: FANS HOPE SONS WILL SHINE IN FIFE TOMORROW
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FIRST MINISTER APOLOGISES TO COVID BEREAVED OVER WHATSAPPS
By Bill Heaney First Minister Humza Yousaf has apologised again – this time for “any shortcomings on our behalf that have caused any distress to the

BAILLIE: MATHESON MUST PAY UP FOR EXTRAORDINARY DATA BILL
By Bill Heaney Health Secretary Michael Matheson must pay out himself to cover the remainder of his £11,000 i pad data bill from his trip

LOADSAMONEY: SCOTTISH WATER’S SEWAGE AND SALARIES SCANDAL ON CLYDE SHORES
By Bill Heaney Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP today said that failing to tackle Scotland’s sewage scandal, which is much in evidence on

EMPOWERMENT: LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK ON BALLOCH LIBRARY CLOSURE
STOP PRESS: The Labour Group on West Dunbartonshire Councillor last night Wednesday disgracefully decided to close Balloch Library despite vigorous protests from the community. Look

RETAIL: Aldi submit plans for new £4.7 million store in Dumbarton
7 November 2023 By Fergus Johnston Aldi has submitted plans for a new £4.7 million store on Castle Street, Dumbarton. The proposed new store marks

Education reform: People asked to share views to create new national qualifications body
Published 07 November 2023 By Lucy Ashton People are being asked to share their views to create a new national qualifications body and new approaches

Tackling antisocial behaviour in West Dunbartonshire
Published 07 November 2023 Wilful fire raising is a frequent offence in West Dunbartonshire. By Lucy Ashton Preventing and addressing antisocial behaviour will be the

Transforming the justice system to better protect women and girls
Published 06 November 2023 By Bill Heaney Woman and girls will be better protected and victims’ needs prioritised as part of reforms to improve justice

King’s Speech is a missed opportunity, says UNISON Gen Secretary
Where was the national care service? Problem is government isn’t listening By Christine McAnea, General Secretary The King’s Speech was a missed opportunity to announce

COMMUNITY PARTY: ARE YOU BEING PAID PROPERLY?
In this guide … What is the minimum wage? Why you may be being underpaid How to get what you’re due Why MSE doesn’t use

Asda equal pay protest as union takes aim at ‘free grafting’
The GMB union said its female members were effectively ‘working for free’ for the rest of the year Workers protested outside the supermarket on Monday.

Salmon firm takes legal action against activist who films fish farms
Author: Billy Briggs Pictures by Bill Heaney A fish farm company has started legal action to stop an anti-salmon campaigner visiting its sites covertly. Scottish

Celtic Connections 2024 programme grows with seminal Bothy Band performance planned
The star-studded line-up for the fabulous Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow. Wednesday 8 November 2023 Celtic Connections 2024 programme grows with seminal Bothy Band performance

Imran Hussain resigns over Starmer’s position on ceasefire
MP says he wants to be a “strong advocate for the humanitarian ceasefire” but currently can’t do so from Labour’s frontbench Wednesday 8 November 2023

‘Dream’ £60k job on Scotland’s most scenic rail route with no experience needed
By Lucy Ashton Those looking for a fresh start will no doubt be interested in this rare job opportunity, as ScotRail are currently recruiting trainee

Three women on trial for alleged abuse at orphanage
Nun accused of orphanage abuse ‘one of gentlest people’ Smyllum Park Orphanage in Lanark after it closed in the 1980s By Democrat reporter A nun

MUSIC: The Reeling announces first wave of spectacular acts
Music The Reeling set for epic 2024 return Glasgow’s newest festival announces first wave of spectacular acts The Reeling, Scotland’s newest traditional music festival, is

‘Savage’ cuts sparks community safety warning as number of police officers drops
Scottish Government has been blasted for presiding over policing cuts which mean that there are significantly less cops on the beat. By Lucy Ashton The

HEALTH: HOSPITAL HOME FOR LUNCH INITIATIVE
Help loved ones back to their home comforts sooner By Lucy Ashton NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is calling for patient families and friends to

SNP leader predicted to lose seat and independence majority to be smashed
By Lucy Ashton It has been forecast today by polling company Ballot Box Scotland that First Minister Humza Yousaf will lose his seat and that

Onslaught brings back memories of earlier wars, witnessed at first hand by their elders
London Review of Books ‘The Refugee Problem’ Leila Farsakh writes about the Palestinians’ struggle for recognition Almost a month has elapsed since Hamas fighters broke the

JACKIE BAILLIE ENCOURAGES CONSTITUENTS TO BE WINTER READY
By Lucy Ashton Jackie Baillie is encouraging residents across Dumbarton, the Vale of Leven, Helensburgh and Lomond to be prepared for winter and, if eligible,

10,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza says health ministry as US deploys nuclear submarine
By agency reporters The health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza says the Palestinian death toll from the ongoing war with Israel has surpassed 10,000. The figures

HEALTH BOARD CHAIRMAN RETIRES THIS MONTH
By Bill Heaney Professor John Brown, chairman of the local Health Board, is retiring this month. He ended his eight-year term of office, which was

SUBMARINERS GATHER IN LONDON FOR ANNUAL REMEMBRANCE SERVICE
By Democrat reporter SERVING AND VETERAN Royal Navy Submariners travelled to London at the weekend to remember those submariners who have gone on “eternal

Scottish Water staff to strike for four days in November
UNISON says the action will have serious implications for water and sewage services By Democrat reporter UNISON sent notices to Scottish Water this week, to

GUY FAWKES NIGHT IN DUMBARTON
Pictures from Levengrove by Gavin MacDonald, Jon Leino, Tom Gardiner and Pedro Dumbarton and Vale Camera Club

First Minister Humza Yousaf’s in-laws arrive home
Elizabeth El-Nakla and her husband Maged were allowed to leave Gaza via the Rafah crossing Elizabeth El-Nakla and her husband Maged are back in Scotland.

FERRET INVESTIGATION: Police Scotland accelerates use of facial recognition
Author: Paul Dobson Police Scotland’s use of a controversial form of facial recognition has tripled over the last five years, and is on course to

More action needed over jailed Dumbarton man, says Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe
By Katie Hunter BBC Scotland reporter Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, pictured above, has said the UK government should be doing more to secure the release of a