f&dp issue 1 2015 print

2015 issue 01

FREETHE FALKIRK & DISTRICT POST

Visit us online at:

falkirkanddistrictpost.co.uk

Inside this issue...Inside this issue...What’s onWhat’s onMother’s DayMother’s DayValentines DayValentines DayCompetitionCompetitionand much more...and much more...

THE FALKIRK & DISTRICT POST

THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST

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Welcome to our readersHere`s to a New Year and we are all hoping 2015 will be a year of prosperity and happiness for every one of our Falkirk and District Post readers.

All of us at The Falkirk and District Post are delighted to announce that we are to increase our distribution from 20,000 to 22,500 homes in Falkirk and surrounding Areas from Issue 2 of this year and as usual the magazine will be available in Tesco and Co-operative stores throughout the district.

You can look forward to more exciting competitions, interesting articles and features. In this edition we have articles on Shrove Tuesday, Valentine’s Day and Mothering Sunday to name a few for you to enjoy. If there are community events you would like to let us know about we would be happy to spread the news throughout Falkirk and district.

We thank all our advertisers and readers for supporting us last year and for making The Falkirk and District Post the fastest growing magazine with a bigger distribution than The Falkirk Herald.

07779 054 071Or e-mail: [email protected]

CONTENTS

Pancake Recipe ................................ pg 6

Valentine’s Day ................................ pg 10-11

Barista Competition ........................ pg 14

Polmont and Brightons are open

for business ...................................... pg 16-21

Top 10 Holidays for 2015 ................ pg 26-27

Enhance Your Mind .......................... pg 30

Mother’s Day .................................... pg 34

What’s On ......................................... pg 38-39

Useful Numbers ............................... pg 44

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Pancake Recipe for Pancake Day.Tuesday 17th February 2015.

Pancake Day .... Shrove Tuesday here in the UK and Ireland. This is the day for eating traditional pancakes. The traditional pancake is thin and crepe-like and the true pancake of this day. Much as American pancakes, Welsh pancakes known as Cremog are lovely, but it is the traditional which wins on Pancake Day...

As Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent, pancakes were a way to use up any stocks of milk, butter and eggs which were forbidden during the abstinence of Lent.

Making pancakes is so quick, easy and cheap, but make sure you make plenty, they are always very popular.

On Pancake Day, pancakes are traditionally eaten sprinkled with sugar and a squeeze of lemon. However, serve as you like with jam, Golden Syrup, honey, chocolate spread; whatever takes your fancy. Enjoy.

Ingredients:

225g / 8 oz plain or all-purpose fl ourPinch salt2 large, fresh eggs600ml / 2½ cups milk2 tsp melted butter plus extra melted butter for cookingPrep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 5 minutesResting time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 25 minutesYield: Depends on size of pan

Preparation (Makes 12 pancakes):

1 Sieve the fl our into a large baking bowl, add the salt. Make a well in the centre of the fl our and add the eggs. Beat well until smooth and lump free.

2 Add half the milk and the 2 tsp of butter, beat well.

3 Add the remaining milk and stir.

4 Leave the batter to rest for 15 minutes.

5 Lightly grease a pancake pan or frying pan with a little melted butter. Heat until very hot and add a ladleful of batter so it evenly and thinly coats the base of the pan. Cook until set and lightly golden.

6 Using a spatula or if you are really brave try tossing the pancake in the air, and cook on the other side for approx 30 seconds.

7 Slip the pancake from the pan onto a warm plate. Cover the plate with a tea cloth and keep warm... Continue as above until all the batter is used up.

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Supplying and Servicing Central

Scotland Since 1966

SDM Toyota Ladysmill, Grangemouth Road, Falkirk, Stirlingshire FK2 9AU T. 01324 635935

SDM Nissan Hyundai Mazda4 Middlefi eld Road, Falkirk, Stirlingshire FK2 9ZD T. 01324 616800

New and used car salesAccident repair centreServicing department

SDM Group is one of the longest standing and well respected Motor Groups in Central Scotland.

www.sdmcars.co.uk

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United StatesValentine’s Day is an extremely popular festival. Here, the day is observed as a holiday. Originally held to honor St Valentine and express love to sweethearts, the scope of the day has come to be so widened that it has now become an occassion to express gratitude and love to not only sweethearts and spouses, but also to teachers, parents or any other close relation or acquaintance. Dinner and dance parties are specially organized all over the country to celebrate the occasion. Couples hold private celebrations in homes or restaurants and gift flowers, Chocolates or some other present to one another. In the US, children celebrate Valentine’s Day with great enthusiasm. In keeping with their interest, many schools hold Valentine’s Day programmes where little students perform songs, dance, skits and plays. Kids handcraft gifts and cards on this occassion and present them to their friends and teachers.

Around The World Valentine’s Day Celebrations

Feb 14 aka Valentine’s Day is coming up again and you’re all geared up for it, right? Dedicated to the memory of St. Valentine, this is the occas-

sion when people all over the world profess love to their sweethearts and buy for them gifts. But the customs associated with the festival and the

ways of celebration differ from place to place and from nation to nation.

BritainIn Britain, St Valentine’s Day is celebrated with great fanfare and gaiety. Like in many other countries, the common celebrations of the day has people expressing love for their beloved with gifts like flowers, cards, chocolates and other special items. The traditions of the celebrations of Valentine’s Day differs in different regions of the country. Another popular tradition followed in some areas of England is the baking of valentine buns with caraway seeds, plums, or raisins. This is believed to be a way of celebrating fertility. Composing verses is another extremely well-known Valentine’s Day custom of Britain.

ItalyIn modern day Italy, Valentine’s Day is mainly seen as a holiday imported from US, just like Halloween, Father’s Day or Mother’s Day. The day is celebrated mainly by the young people who take this opportunity to profess love to their

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sweethearts with gifts like perfume, chocolates, flowers, cards or jewellery. The day is seen here exclusively for lovers. A popular Valentine’s Day gift in Italy is Baci Perugina - a small, chocolate-covered hazelnut containing a small slip of paper with a romantic poetic quote in four languages.

DenmarkIn Denmark, February 14 is mainly a day for the young. It’s a time for romance and exchanging of love tokens. Young people send to their beloveds a valentine card on this occassion. The Danish valentine card is famously known as a “lover’s card”. Another Danish Valentine’s Day custom is to send pressed white flowers called Snowdrops to friends. The season of love is also a time for fun what with many Danish men sending to their ladylove a form of valentine known as a gaekkebrev (or “joking letter”). This gaekkebrev is a type of romantic letter that contains a rhyme penned by the sender himself. The fun part of this custom is that the letter doesn’t have the name of the sender. Instead, the lover signs the message with dots...one dot for each letter in his name. If the lady whom he sends the gaekkebrev correctly guesses his name, he rewards her with an Easter egg during Eastertide.

JapanIn Japan, Valentine’s Day is observed on February 14 but the celebration of love truly ends on March 14, known as the “White Day”. On the first date, women present chocolates or gifts to the men they love to express their feelings for them. Men who receive chocolates or gifts on Valentine’s day are supposed to return the favour to the women on March 14, exactly a month after Valentine’s Day. Also known as “White Day”, this is the time when men are to give back a gift to the women who gave them gifts just a month before.

KoreaThe Valentine’s Day celebrations in Korea is quite akin to the Japanese observance of the festival. As in Japan, Korea witnesses gifting of chocolates from females to males. The favour is returned the same way by the men on March 14, which is referred to as “White Day” similar to the custom in Japan. But “White Day” here is a Valentine’s Day in its own right as many young men confess their love for the first time to their sweethearts on this occassion.

And then there is April 14, also known as “Black Day”, which has been specially set aside for those young people who have no particular romantic partners. The curious name of the day probably comes from the fact that on this date, individuals who are not in any relationship get together and partake of Jajang noodles, which are black in color.

GermanyThe German celebration of Valentine’s Day is nearly the same as elsewhere in the world. For Germans, the festival is a celebraton of love and a time to spend with their sweethearts. In Germany, it is customary for a young man to present his beloved with flowers on February 14. Valentine gifts in Germany are usually in the shape of love tokens, complete with lovely messages.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Station Road is open for businessSupport Your Local Traders

Given it’s proximity to Falkirk, one of the first things that strikes you about the Polmont and Brightons area is that it is a self-contained community in its own right. You are able to find just about everything you need in the area. People live and work and go to school here. They meet and socialise in the local café or in the local pubs and chat in the myriad of local shops.

It is clear that work to replace

the rail bridge on Station Road

is going to have an effect

on this community. With an

influx of workers and vehicles

travelling different routes

during the road diversions,

are there opportunities for

the local business community

to turn some of this to their

advantage?

The area boasts a thriving and diverse range of businesses which serve local residents, as well as those travelling from further afield for retail, beauty and commerce as well as social, leisure and recreational pursuits. Traders are understandably concerned though that they will loose out on ‘passing trade’ with the closure of the bridge.

The flip-side of this though is that the local traders, the hairdressers and beauty salons, trade on their reputation within the local area and have built up regular and loyal customers who will work around the short-term inconvenience to return to their favourite establishment or stylist.

Other businesses that offer niche services such as NJ Sewing Machine Services draw on a strong client base, not to mention word of mouth, familiarity and the value of one to-one professional relationships. These providers will continue to offer the same high standards of service and expertise that has ensured that their reputation is known well beyond the Brightons, Polmont area. Other

outlets such as T Johnston Butchers, will also continue to thrive boasting a unique or specialist provision.

People will also continue to visit the area to sample the variety of cuisine on offer ranging from cafes to take away restaurants. There’s also several well known pubs and bars which provide an opportunity to unwind and spend time with friends and family.

There are a number of local newsagents in the area, most notably, the long standing business of John Monfries and Son where you can purchase a range of different items. And if you are under the weather (or want to avoid being), you can visit the Apple Pharmacy to collect

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

prescriptions or other health care items. (They also deliver!)

If you have arrived by car (though we should point out that train services are running as normal throughout the work), you can have it expertly cleaned at Easiwash Car Wash and Valeting or if you are having car troubles why not book in to one of the local garages for a service or MOT? And if you are at the start of the learning to drive

journey, there are several driving schools, such as Mike Sword Driver Training to choose from.

Due to the close proximity of the Falkirk area to both Glasgow and Edinburgh Airports, if you are jetting off, why not use a local airport transfer to take the hassle out of getting to the airport.

And for sadder occasions, a professional service is

assured when making funeral arrangements locally.

Local people will continue to shop locally as they see the value in having their local traders in the community. They will continue to meet and chat and socialise. And it is because this is a strong self-contained community the temporary closure of a bridge will do little to alter this fact.

Network Rail – Supporting Local Traders

Echoes Ecology LtdUnit 39, Haypark Business Centre, Marchmont Avenue, Polmont FK2 0NZPhone – 0870 234 0002 [email protected] www.echoesecology.co.uk

EasiwashRosehall Garage Main Street, Polmont FK2 0QPPhone – 01324 711 999www.easiwash.co.uk

Pink Nik DesignsCroftfoot House, Main Street, Polmont FK2 0PSPhone – 01324 719 [email protected]

Photogold Ecommerce40 Dunvegan Place, Polmont FK2 0NXMobile – 07723 538 941www.photogoldecommerce.com

Airport Transfers Falkirk40 Dunvegan Place, Polmont FK2 0NXPhone – 01324-883305www.airport-transfers-falkirk.co.uk

FFT HealthcareHaypark Business Centre, Marchmont Avenue, Polmont FK2 0NZPhone – 0845 184 0091

CALAD media5 School View, Polmont FK2 0JWMobile – 07742 192 515Phone – 01324 719 [email protected]

MP Locums HealthcareHaypark Business Centre, Marchmont Avenue, Polmont FK2 0NZPhone – 0845 496 0095www.mplocums.com

Gingerbread CafeUnit 5, Polmont Shopping Centre, Greenpark Drive, Polmont FK2 0PZMobile – 07825 746 845Phone – 01324 578 410www.gingerbreadcafe.org.uk

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Sticky Plaster TrainingGilston Farmhouse, Polmont FK2 0YQMobile – 07875 575 959 [email protected]

Judi Williams Interiors2 Main Street, Brightons FK2 0JTPhone – 01324 715 841Mobile – 07778 631 808 [email protected]

McLaren Access Plant HireHaypark Business Centre, Marchmont Avenue, Polmont FK2 0NZPhone – 01324 [email protected] www.mclarenaccess.co.uk

Taylor William Estate Agents1 Albert Place, Maddiston Road FK2 0JX Phone – 01324 719 [email protected] www.taylorwilliam.co.uk

Flames TandooriUnit B Salmon Inn Road, Polmont FK2 0XFPhone – 01324 719 888 www.flames-polmont.co.uk

Black Bull InnMain Street, Polmont FK2 0PXPhone – 01324 716 610blackbullpolmont@ ltpubmanagement.comwww.blackbullpolmont.co.uk

Brightons & Polmont Dental PracticeMcLaren House, Haypark Business Centre, Marchmont Avenue, Polmont FK2 0NZPhone – 01324 711164brightonsandpolmontdental.co.uk

SPARUnit A Salmon Inn Road, Polmont FK2 0XFPhone – 01324 719 [email protected] www.spar.co.uk

Sheared Secrets Hair and Beauty2c Pretoria Place, Brightons FK2 0UFPhone – 01324 720 [email protected]

Simply PawsitiveHarlow Avenue, Brightons FK2 0FEMobile – 07738 599 [email protected] www.dogtraininginscotland.com

N.J Sewing Machine Services2 Pretoria Place, Station Road, Brightons FK2 0UFPhone – 01324 711 [email protected] www.njsewingmachines.co.uk

Colin J Wright Funeral Directors3 Station Road, Brightons FK2 0UFPhone – 01324 720 710www.colinjwrightfuneral directors.co.uk

Andrew Edwards Driving School3 Union Pl, Brightons FK2 0FGMobile – 07714 360 943 [email protected] www.andrewsds.co.uk

Bibby MagicMobile – 07794 124 [email protected] www.bibbymagic.co.uk

2T Scaffolding2 Kaimes Cres, Kirknewton EH27 7ASPhone – 0131 555 6043Mobile – 07709 080555 www.2Tscaffolding.com


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ADVERTISING FEATURE


Gemini Walks4 Inglis Place, Brightons FK2 0TEPhone – 01324 410 260Mobile – 07912 206 538 [email protected] www.geminiwalks.com

SPAR – Brightons CrossMaddiston Road, Brightons FK2 0JRPhone – 01324 712 [email protected] www.spar.co.uk

Brightons Cross Chinese51A Maddiston Road, Brightons FK2 0JRPhone – 01324 717 000

The Scottish Touch Gift Shop2 Crichton Place, Brightons FK2 0RZPhone – 01324 717 765www.thescottishtouch.co.uk

Braes Equestrian4 Crichton Place, Brightons FK2 0RZPhone – 01324 717 765www.braesequestrian.co.uk

Rosehall GarageMain Street, PolmontFK2 0QPPhone – 01324 712 [email protected]

The Kitchen & Bathroom Studio4 Main Street, Brightons FK2 0JTPhone – 01324 716034www.bathtub.uk.com

Homeseal WindowsMain Street, Polmont FK2 0PXPhone – 01324 716 [email protected]

The Braes Larder2 Main Street, Brightons FK2 0JTPhone – 01324 229 [email protected]

The Charity Shop27 Main Street, Brightons FK2 [email protected]

Polmont Convenience Store 11 Main Street, Polmont, Falkirk FK2 0PX Phone – 01324 712 507

WM Holleran & SonsUnit 1 Polmont Shopping CentrePolmont FK2 0PZPhone – 01324 712 701

Four In One6 Greenpark Drive, Polmont FK2 0PZPhone – 01324 714 148 / 718 836 / 718 131www.fourinone.co.uk

The Bike and Ski Clinic10 Park Terrace, Brightons FK2 0HYPhone – 01324 718 700www.bikeandskiclinic.co.uk

Brightons Car Services2d Main Street, Brightons FK2 0JTPhone – 01324 227 [email protected]

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CHNiQUE Salon1 Albert Pl, Brightons FK2 0JXPhone – 01324 720 671

Mike Sword Driver TrainingPhone – 07803 928 821www.mikesworddrivertraining.co.uk

T. Johnston Butchers4 Main Street, Brightons FK2 0JTPhone – 01324 717 126

Head For It25 Main St, Brightons FK2 0JSPhone – 01324 712 721

Brightons InnMaddiston Road, Falkirk FK2 0JPPhone – 01324 711 315

Apple PharmacyPretoria Pl, Brightons FK2 0UFPhone – 01324 712 526

Cuts AheadCroftfoot House, Main St, Polmont FK2 0PSPhone – 01324 711 105

The Beauty RoomCroftfoot House, Main St, Polmont FK2 0PSPhone – 01324 711 105

BP Millfield Main St, Polmont, Falkirk FK2 0PS Phone – 01324 717 039

1st Klass Barbers1 Pretoria Place, Brightons FK2 0UF

Concept Building Solutions2A Taymouth Road, Polmont FK2 0PGPhone – 0800 157 1020

Headz for HairMarchmont Avenue, Polmont FK2 0PWPhone – 01324 714 159

John Monfries & SonPretoria Pl, Brightons FK2 0UEPhone – 01324 712 177

Bank of ScotlandStation Road, Polmont FK2 0TUPhone – 01324 507 201

Tidy Dogs31 Main Street, Brightons FK2 0JSPhone – 01324 716 356

J.S BarbersUnit 2 Greenpark Drive, Polmont FK2 0PZPhone – 01324 717 636

The Co-opGreenpark DrivePolmont FK2 0PXPhone – 01324 716 673

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Network Rail invest in your communityAt the beginning of January, Network Rail started work to upgrade the bridge over the railway at Station Road, Polmont. This investment forms part of a wider programme of work in the area in preparation for the forthcoming electrification of central Scotland’s rail network.

The work will see the bridge

being replaced and upgraded

with the road scheduled to

re-open in October 2015.

The bridge work at Station Road, Polmont is part of a series of similar investments to support the future electrification of the railway between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Extending electrification right

across central Scotland is key to unlocking additional capacity, reducing congestion and ensuring that longer trains provide more seats for passengers. It will also provide the solid foundation for future electrification of Scotland’s railway. Polmont will benefit from faster journey times to both Edinburgh and Glasgow with a more reliable and

resilient train service on quicker, quieter, greener trains.

Projects of this nature do not come without some disruption. Faced with constraints of a Victorian infrastructure, Network Rail embarked on clearance works to ensure bridges are high enough above the rails to safely install electric cables underneath.

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Since February 2012, Network Rail has ‘cleared’ 49 bridges in advance of the Edinburgh Glasgow Improvement Programme (EGIP), representing an investment of some £70m and an enviable track record of on-time and on-budget delivery. The knowledge and experience garnered on similar projects by Network Rail will be utilised in full during the work at Station Road, Polmont.

Polmont has excellent rail links to Scotland’s largest cities and is well placed to capitalise on the proposed rail infrastructure improvements in

the expectation that the area will reap long term benefits. Given the layout of Polmont and Brightons, with the railway running through the middle, it is clear that the closure of the bridge, even on a temporary basis, will have an impact in the local area.

Network Rail has been active in the area sending out letters, leaflets and newsletters to residents and businesses; listening to people in the community through regular attendance at community council meetings and by hosting a number of community drop-ins.

Talking to and listening to the people who work, live and go to school in the area has helped Network Rail understand the impact the closure of the bridge will have. This has informed our plans, so a range of mitigating measures are being undertaken to minimise noise and other disruption during the work.

Network Rail has made a commitment that communication will be a constant process and that throughout the work they will be accessible, informative and responsive – time will tell if they are as good as their word.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Diversions are signposted and in place throughout the work.A temporary pedestrian bridge will be installed for the duration of the work. While the temporary pedestrian bridge is being installed, members of the public will be diverted using a safe passage across the existing road bridge which is closed to traffic.

On occasions where the temporary footbridge will close to the public for health and safety reasons, access will be controlled by marshalls positioned at either end of the temporary bridge.

We are working with Falkirk Council and other local organisations to minimise the disruption closure of the bridge will cause.

We will monitor the road traffic throughout the work to ensure the road diversion is working well. Please let us know if there are any issues.

Any queries about the work can be directed to the 24 hour community relations helpline on 08457 11 41 41, through [email protected] or via twitter @NetworkrailEGIP

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Top 10 Holiday Top 10 Holiday Destinations 2015Destinations 20152015 promises to be yet another amazing year for holidays.

Have you thought about where you’re going on your summer holidays?

Searching for your prefect holiday can be time consuming and stressful. We’ve compiled a list of our top 10 holiday hot-spots for 2015 to try and make your decision on choosing your summer 2015 holiday easier.

Each destination has been specifi cally chosen for its uniqueness, value for money and popularity. Some you’ll have seen before, but others have entered the top 10 for the fi rst time.

1. MajorcaMajorca has something to off er everyone. Small relaxing resorts, family holidays, young and lively, Majorca has is all. This is why it’s one of the best holiday destinations to travel to each year.

With resorts dotted around its coastline and hundreds of apartments and hotels, you’ll defi nitely fi nd something you’ll like. Its safe beaches, warm waters and friendly Spanish hospitality make Majorca a must see holiday destination. You can fl y to Majorca pretty much every day from most UK airports, so fi nding a cheap fl ight won’t be an issue. Odd durations such as 6, 8 or 9 nights are very popular as fl ights can be cheaper.

When to go?The main holiday season starts at Easter and fi nishes at the end of October half term. May, June and September are the best months to go. It’s not as busy or hot as in July and August.

2. TurkeyTourism is booming in Turkey. Brand new luxury hotels are popping up each year. It’s also outside the EU and with the Pound stronger than ever, Turkey has become one of the cheapest holiday destinations in recent years. With daily fl ights from the UK into one of 4 airports in Turkey, you can explore Turkey’s unspoilt beaches, its warm turquoise waters and stunning history and architecture. Turkey truly is one of the top places to travel to in the Eastern Mediterranean.

When to go?If you like the sun, then June through to September is the best time to go. Make sure you book somewhere that off ers air-conditioning as the nights can be just as humid as the days.

3. CroatiaCroatia’s Dalmatian coast is one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe. Littered with fantastic beaches, hundreds of Islands and old town City centre’s, Croatia is becoming one of the hottest destinations in Europe.

Dubrovnik is a medieval wall lined City on Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Housing some of the oldest buildings in the World, the Old Town’s narrow streets make it a must for sightseeing. Dubrovnik’s walls are excellently preserved and run for about 2km around the City. Due to their popularity, they’ve been fi lmed in TV series such as Game of Thrones.

If you fancy a relaxing break, why not check out the Island of Hvar. Further North, and a ferry ride from Split, Hvar is truly a wonderful resort. Stunning beaches, exquisite food and a selection of luxury and budget hotels. Croatia should be high up on your to-do-list for 2015. It’s also closer than you think. You can fl y to Croatia in under 2 and a half hours from the UK.

When to go?April to June are the best months to travel to enjoy this wonderful Country. It’s less busy, so you can walk through the cobbled streets and take in everything Croatia has to off er.

4. Orlando, FloridaAlways a fi rm favourite with the British, Orlando in Florida has become one of the top selling destinations of all time. Thousands of Brits travel to Florida each year and 2015 will be no exception.

I recommend staying at either a Disney hotel as they are close to the parks and will keep your children entertained. If you want something quieter, why not stay in a villa or town house around the Kissimmee area and hire a car. Most villas come with a private pool. Finding something to eat in Orlando is easy. They have hundreds of restaurants and you’ll fi nd every kind of cuisine on off er, all at reasonable prices.

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Top 10 Holiday Destinations 2015

With more fl ights than ever, Orlando is still a very popular destination.

When to go?April through to June and September are the best months to go, as the weather is hot but not too unpleasant and the crowds won’t be huge. Stay clear of the US spring break as the parks can be crowded with teenagers.

5. CyprusCyprus has suff ered a drop in tourism recently, but was back last year with a bang. New hotels are being built and older hotels renovated. Cyprus has always built its reputation on hospitality and service.

Nissi Bay has the best beach in Cyprus, whilst the old town of Paphos has lovely boutique shops and market stalls. Take a jeep safari to the Troodos Mountains or experience the Turkish & Greek side of Cyprus at Nicosia.

When to go?The summer months of July and August can be hot and humid. May and June are the best times to lie of the beach, whilst April and October are still warm, you can enjoy more strenuous activities or tours.

6. TenerifeTenerife is part of the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa. It’s one of the cheapest holiday destinations to travel to for guaranteed sunshine. A volcanic island with lots to do. With water-parks and nature reserves or a trek up the volcano there is plenty on off er. You can relax on a hot black sand beach or walk round the old town or Puerto de la Cruz in the North.

When to go?Puerto de la Cruz can be cloudy in the Winter months, so it’s best travelling between June and September. The South part of Tenerife is beautiful all year round and with over 300 days of sunshine, this is why Tenerife has made our top 10 holiday destinations 2015 list.

7. Algarve, PortugalBeautiful sandy beaches, stunning sea views and lush green golf courses, the Algarve is the relaxing holiday you’ve been dreaming of. With small resorts dotted along the coastline, you’ll fi nd a laid back attitude from the locals and holiday makers alike. There is nothing strenuous or lively about the Algarve. Take walks to the harbour and watch the fi shing boats, or sit on a beach side cafe and eat sea food that was caught that morning. When to go?The Algarve is wonderful all year round. It’s milder in the winter months and can be chilly in the evenings, but whenever you travel to Portugal, don’t forget your golf clubs.

8. GreeceGreece has hundreds of tiny Islands, all with their own charm and warm hospitality. Having been to Greece many times, I’d recommend staying away from the mainstream Islands such as Corfu, Kos, Rhodes and Crete and try something diff erent.

The smaller Islands such as Santorini with its bright white buildings or the small fi shing village’s of Paros, truly make Greece a wonderful an exciting destination. Some of the smaller Islands don’t have airports, so a relaxing ferry ride from a neighbouring Island is a great start to your adventure in Greece.

When to go?Avoid the hustle and bustle of the summer by going away in May or September. Greece will be pleasantly warm and you can experience all it has to off er without the crowds.

9. Costa RicaSituated on the thin strip of land between North and South America, Costa Rica is a prosperous and safe Country. Abolishing its army in 1949, Costa Rica is now famed for being progressively environmentally sustainable and big in exporting coff ee and bananas.

Tourism is on the increase in Costa Rica. There is much to see and do with its national parks, volcanoes and protected areas. Take a trek through the fl oral forests, relax on a beach or go bird watching.

Costa Rica is one of Latin America’s most up and coming Countries, so try something diff erent for your 2015 holiday destination.

When to go?The dry season is November until April, but January and February can be windy. The wet season is May until November with the heavy rainfall in September and October.

10. MauritiusA popular honeymoon and wedding destination, Mauritius is now more accessible than ever.

With white sandy beaches, warm crystal clear waters and wonderful sunshine, Mauritius could be mistaken for a forgotten Caribbean Island. Tropical forests, mountains and excellent scuba diving, Mauritius has something to off er everyone. It is also steeped in history with many old buildings and has the largest un-broken barrier reef in the World.

Temperatures in Mauritius are on average high 20’s all year round. Flying time from the UK is just under 12 hours.

When to go?Being a tropical paradise, Mauritius has fantastic weather all year round. January to March is the wet season and the long hot summer days and nights between November and April are humid and dry.

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Hi I Am Yvonne Mitchell and founder of Libra therapy. I am a holistic Healer, Incorporating healing from top to toe and to soothe the soul for your well being which includes:

Indian Head Massage- an ancient healing which helps to ease stress, especially in the head, neck and shoulder area.

Reiki- a gentle non evasive and natural healing.

Refl exology- a type of informative foot massage which helps the body to bring itself into balance.

Health Awareness- an interesting and thought

provoking way to look at your health with nutritional advice.

Self Awareness- allows you to stop the blame game and helps you take responsibility, a personal journey that has its own unique healing empowerment.

I also work with auras, chakras and colour to give you a wonderful feeling of being energised for your emotional and physical well being.

To start your journey today call me on the above numbers, keeping in mind that any changes will be challenging as well as rewarding.

Enhance your mind,body and soul with therapy

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Mothers Day in UK is celebrated with great excitement and verve In the UK, Mother’s Day celebrations takes place on the fourth Sunday in the month of Lent. Since the Lent days are not fi xed, the date for mother`s Day changes every year.

Mothers Day came to be celebrated in UK in 17th century as Mothering Sunday, much before the custom began in US. Today, the traditional festival of Mothering Sunday is more commonly called as Mothers Day in the United Kingdom and is celebrated in much the same way as it is celebrated in US. On this day children give fl owers and bouquets to their mother to express their love for them.

History of Mother’s Day in the United KingdomThe tradition of celebrating Mothers Day began much earlier in England than it started in USA. In fact England was the fi rst country in the world to dedicate a day for mothers as early as 1600s. They called this day for mothers as ‘Mothering Sunday’.

The festival has its roots in the practice wherein poor people in England send their little children to work as domestic servants or apprentice with the rich. At that time it was considered important by the people that these children, staying away from their families be allowed to visit their homes once in a year. The time decided for the annual visit to home was middle Sunday of the fasting period of Lent (which lasts from Ash Wednesday to Easter). For this reason, the day was called ‘Refreshment Sunday’ or ‘Mid-Lent Sunday’.

In England the day dedicated for mothers was more commonly called Mothering Sunday as people, mainly children visited their ‘Mother Church’ or the church of their home and not the ‘Daughter Church’, the closest church in the vicinity. After paying a visit to church, children met their mothers and presented them fl owers, which they gathered from bushes along the way.

Mother’s Day in the United Kingdom

Girls baked special cakes called ‘Simnel Cakes’ for their mothers.

The tradition of Mothering Sunday stopped with the advent of Industrial Revolution in England when the working conditions and life pattern changed. Over the period of time one Sunday - 4th Sunday in Lent (3 weeks before Easter) was reserved in the honour of mothers. In the present time, original meaning of Mothering Sunday has been lost and has taken the form and name of Mothers Day.

Mother’s Day Celebration in the United KingdomMothers Day is celebrated in a big way in the U K. Children pay tribute to their mothers and thank them for all their love and support. An atmosphere of excitement prevails on the day and marketers make all eff orts to make big profi ts out of the euphoria. Flowers record their maximum sale as people in the United Kingdom love to express their gratitude for their mothers by gifting them fl owers more than anything else. Most popular fl owers on Mother`s Day in Great Britain are roses followed by carnations and chrysanthemums. In the UK, there is also a tradition of making a rich almond cake for mothers called ‘Mothering Cake’ or ‘Simnel Cake’ on Mother`s Day


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THE FALKIRK AND DISTRICT POST 38 | The Falkirk & District Post | 2013 | Issue 06 To Advertise Please Call 07772 591 101

Yaunfan Yang: PianoDate: Friday 20th FebruaryLocation: Falkirk Town HallEnquiries: 01324 506850

Hailed as a giant of the keyboard, 16 year old Edinburgh born pianist Yuanfan Yang has impressed audiences with an assurance and feeling that would be the envy of soloists twice his age. A grand fi nalist of BBC Young Musician of the Year 2012 Yuanfan’s programme contains works by Chopin, Schumann, Beethoven and Rachmaninov as well as his own new composition.

This concert is sponsored by Insurance Advisory Services, Larbert.

A Picture of Falkirk on the Eve of War - Brunch TalkDate: Wednesday 4th February Location: Callendar HouseEnquiries: 01324 503770

Presented by Ian Scott. In the fi rst decade of the 20th century tinted postcards came into fashion due to advances in technology and a moderate postage rate. Their popularity led to an explosion in the range of scenes depicted and have left us with a vivid picture of the Edwardian townscape.

The Circus of Horrors: The Night of the ZombieDate: Sunday 8th FebruaryLocation: Falkirk Town HallEnquiries: 01324 506850

It’s 2020, in a decrepit corpse ridden London plagued by a swarm of zombies. Our story twists and turns with grisly murders and sensational shocks in a city ruled by the undead, climaxing in

WHAT’S ONJANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH

an awesome fl aming apocalypse.Circus of Horrors are back with their acclaimed, bizarre and dangerous circus acts including, sword swallowers, knife throwers, astounding aerialists, a demon dwarf, and a Guinness World Record holding ‘hairculian’ hair hanging beauty, and so much more! Expect incredible things for their 20th anniversary tour from the troupe that not only made the Britain’s Got Talent fi nals, but has also shared the stage with everyone from Motley Crue to Eminem!

Don’t forget to take advantage of the Early Bat off er, valid until 1st February - all tickets are £18.00 until then!

Ballroom DanceDates: Friday 13th February, Friday 13th March and Friday 10th AprilLocation: Falkirk Town HallEnquiries: 01324 506850

Sashay your way across our dance fl oor to music from resident musician John Findlay at one of our relaxed evenings of ballroom dancing.A great evening to enjoy with a partner or friends, with our bar open throughout and snacks served to keep you dancing ‘til dusk.

PaddingtonDates: Saturday 10th January and Sunday 11th January Location: Hippodrome Cinema Bo`nessEnquiries: 01324 506850

Hugely-anticipated live-action feature with an all-star cast based on the much-loved series of children’s books by Michael Bond about the bear from Peru adopted by the Brown family.Dir. Paul King / 2014 / 1h 35mShow all...

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National Theatre Live: Treasure IslandDate: Thursday 22nd January and Wednesday 11th FebruaryLocation: Macrobert, Stirling UniversityEnquiries: 01786 466 666

Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny is brought to life in a thrilling new stage adaptation by Bryony Lavery, broadcast live from the National Theatre. It’s a dark, stormy night. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-keeper’s granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in – and her dangerous voyage begins.Suitable for 10+

Craig Hill - Give Him an Inch...Date: Saturday 7th February Location: Macroberts, Stirling UniversityEnquiries: 01786 466 666

Don’t miss the chance to see Scotland’s favourite kilted treasure - live and unleashed. Book early for this deliciously wicked and gloriously camp evening of no-holds-barred comedy and pure, unadulterated fun.

The Polar Bears Go WildDates: Thursday 12th February, Friday 13th February and Saturday 14th FebruaryLocation: Macroberts, Stirling University Enquiries: 01786 466 666

“If you’re aged 5 or under, then here’s the show for you, get here on your skis / snowshoes / tractor or paddle your canoe…’’

Brave explorers wanted to join two friendly (but slightly naughty) Polar Bears on the adventure of a lifetime. Where are they going? What will they get up to next? And have they got enough sandwiches (Polar Bears love sandwiches, everyone knows that)?

With music, laughter and quite a lot of cheekiness, The Polar Bears Go Wild is a perfect treat for young audiences. Remember to keep hold of your ice cream - Polar Bears are always hungry!

Alan Carr - Yap, Yap, Yap!Date: Wednesday 25th February Location: Macroberts, Stirling UniversityEnquiries: 01786 466 666

No stranger to yap Alan Carr will be yapping his way around the UK & Ireland with his brand new stand up show ‘Yap, Yap, Yap!’ The BAFTA and British Comedy Award winning comedian, author and chat show supremo returns to his stand up roots with his hilarious take on life.Yap it up! Brand New UK & Ireland Tour

My Friend MoleDate: Sunday 8th March Location: Macroberts, Stirling University Enquiries: 01786 466 666

Mole is my best friend, he is brave and funny. Mole goes everywhere I go. No one can see him apart from me.Join Birdsnest Theatre as they weave this gentle tale of a very special friendship and the imagination.Using live music, storytelling and a rich visual language that will delight and surprise it’s audience.

FiddlesticksDate: Sunday 22nd February Location: Macroberts, Stirling University Enquiries: 01786 466 666

Children’s Classic Concert present Fiddlesticks - their latest fun-fi lled show for music fans of all ages.

Percussion whizz kids and popular CCC presenters, Owen and Olly, will be joined by some of the best strong players in the country to perform a toe-tapping fusion of classical and traditional Scottish music. Featuring violins and vbraphones, clarsachs and congas, and basses of both the string and drum variety. Fiddlesticks will also include lots of opportunities to join in the musical mayhem. Performing on stage will be international clarsach soloist Savourna Stevenson, and the prominent Fejes Quartet featuring members of the RSNO.

This is a noisy energetic show with plenty of audience participation and chances to play instruments onstage with the musicians.

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The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Excepting translations, you may not reproduce our articles online or in print without fi rst obtaining written permission. Please contact the author to obtain his or her written consent. Once you receive permission from the author, contact us to let us know where and when the article will be reprinted.

© 2015 Falkirk and District Post.

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USEFUL NUMBERS


Cheryl Mackie, Falkirk

Congratulations to our issue 6 winner:

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