here - MHA

Feb 2016
The Village
Voice
Issue 82
Frozen Solid! Photo supplied by Mr M. Thomas, North Lodge
In this issue
News from Lesley McNeill
Page 2
Film Afternoon
Page 13
News from David McGrane
Page 3
Auchlochan Playreaders – All at Sea Page 13-14
News from Customer Services
Page 4-5
The Notice Board
Page 15-20
News from Homecare
Page 6-7
The Bistro Theme Night Menu
Page 21
News from Bankhouse
Page 7
Independent Living Outings
Page 22
Chaplaincy Chatter
Page 8-9
Interest Groups & Events Calendars Page 23
Communion Service Dates
Page 9
Chaplaincy Events Calendar
Page 24
Auchlochan Men’s Social Group
Page 10
Mini Bus Internal Pick up Times
Page 24
News from A.C.E.
Page 11-12
Beauty & Wellbeing
Page 25
Page | 1
News from Lesley McNeill
Well the month of January has certainly been
interesting in relation to the weather! Indeed
as I am writing this storm Gertrude has decided
to cross the Atlantic and pay us a visit.
As always we welcome all new residents to the
village and hope you enjoy village life with
us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the
families of Mrs Jean Kruse, Mrs Monica
Lauriston and Mrs Anna Findlay who all passed
away last month and our thoughts remain with
residents who are unwell or have been in
hospital over the past month.
There seems to have been some confusion
over the past couple of months in relation to
action that should be taken in the event of
Fire. MHA’s policy in relation to fire is for all
residents to remain in their own property until
the Fire Brigade have attended. If the building
has a Fire Marshall, then they may attend the
fire panel to ascertain where the activation is
and to meet the Fire Brigade on arrival. We
have updated this information in the Residents
Directory and should you wish an updated copy
please let Customer Services know.
As you will have seen, Clarke Contracts are on
site at Nethanvale and I hope to be able to
provide an update on progress next
month. You will also be aware, that David
McGrane has communicated the future road
closures around the village with you via a
letter. This information has been provided to
ourselves via South Lanarkshire Council and
Scottish Power. If we are advised of any
changes to these works, we will keep you
updated. In the meantime can I ask that you
please follow the diversion signs.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank
residents who have been offering assistance to
residents who have recently moved into the
village or indeed are just showing an interest in
the village. The village has a warm community
feel and prospective residents have
appreciated being made to feel welcome and
realise the benefits of village life.
I am sure you will agree that it was lovely
having Adrian Bagg, our CEO, speak in the
Douglas Suite last month and he then took the
opportunity to meet Auchlochan’s Residents
Committee. I know that Adrian enjoyed his
visit and will look forward to visiting again in
the near future.
As many of you may be aware Auchlochan’s
Residents Committee will have been
established for one year in June 2015. In
accordance with the Constitution, 4 members
of the Committee shall retire at the end of the
first year. Members are eligible for re-election
by their representative area up to completing a
maximum of nine years service as a Committee
member. At the committee meeting last
month, a member from each area agreed to
retire with 3 members offering themselves for
re-election. The nomination of any person
whose consent for such nomination should
have been ascertained must be notified in
writing to Customer Services before 15th
February. I will then seek separate
confirmation that the individuals nominated
are willing to stand for election. Ballot papers
will be issued by 1 March for return no later
than 18 March and the result will be declared
at the Annual Meeting for all residents on 30
March 2016.
Regards
Lesley
Page | 2
News from David McGrane
been laid with turf.
straw, was caused by the amount of water
Hello everyone,
lying in the area to be covered!
What a mild winter period we have had so far
this season. Pity about the amount of rain we
have had to endure, although as we all know
everything is relative again we have had it easy
in comparison to many other areas of the UK.
Yet again we have a number of High Level
floodlights out around the site, and as you will
recall from last year the only method of safely
accessing these is via a Cherry Picker. We are
currently
gaining
The delay in this final
quotations
for
the
replacement of the broken ones to help
“illuminate” the full site once again. The two
floodlights which did light up the “Calder
Bridge” have also gone out, and their
replacement will be included in the planned
rectification work.
contractor’s only outstanding items here now
are the “white lining” to mark out the
individual new Car parking spaces in this area
and a small perimeter fence. This is expected
to be completed during February, weather
dependant.
The final meeting was held with “GEZE”, the
contractors who are to supply and install the
replacement doors for all three blocks of the
Retirement Apartments; installation has been
confirmed for week commencing 15th February.
I am pleased to confirm that the new electric
sliding doors will be operated in a similar
method to those that are employed at the
Retreat with every resident being provided
with new “key fobs” to allow entry. Existing
call panels and release mechanism within the
A new Balustrade was installed outside of the
main Reception and Bistro area, facing onto
the car park.
flats will remain for your visitors. I have also
100% confirmed that the side exit door
(towards the underpass), and the door to the
Lochan side between Blocks 2 & 3 will both
The drop kerb from the Main car park and the
new link corridor access for the Douglas Suite
has been widened and bollards installed to the
sides. This is intended to help keep people
focused when entering on
Our
foot or
by
wheelchair from the car park. The final piece
of this “jigsaw” is for the parking space
employ the same “key fob” access for entry.
The Retreat…..at long last we have managed to
get rid of the “wobbly” posts which protected
the small bridge access into Phase 1 from the
top car park. Three new shiny “straight” ones
have been installed.
immediately in front of this to have the white
markings removed and replaced with a full “no
parking” signage hatched out with yellow
David McGrane
Estate and Amenities Support Manager
paint.
As you may have noticed the final area to the
rear of the link corridor and offices has now
Page | 3
News from Customer Services
Activities Programme
Thank you to everyone who took the time to
complete the Activities Slip that was issued last
month and for putting forward your
suggestions for activities.
The most popular choices were for:  Tai Chi
 Short Mat Bowls
 Book Swap Afternoons
 Games Afternoons, including Bridge
Club and Chess Club
All of the above have been included in our
regular Programme of Activities, which can be
found on Page 23 of the Village Voice.
Tai Chi Class - 10.30am every Wednesday in
the Douglas Suite
New members welcome – come along and
enjoy your first class free. Please note that the
class on Wednesday 3rd February will take
place in the Village Centre Craft Suite.
I would personally like to thank Mr John Turner
for his assistance in sourcing the equipment
and in organising the initial open session.
Book Swap Afternoons
Our popular Book Swap Afternoons will take
place in the Village Centre Reception on the
first Monday of March, June, September and
December.
Games Afternoons
2pm–4pm every Friday in the Courtyard Lounge
Enjoy a fun afternoon with a range of Jigsaws
and Board Games including Dominoes, Card
Games, Scrabble, Boggle, Cluedo, Connect 4,
Monopoly, Tension, Chess and Draughts.
Bridge Club
Bridge is a partnership game requiring four
players. At the moment only 3 people have
expressed an interest in playing Bridge. We
need a 4th person! Please contact Customer
Services if you would like to join in. Games will
take place during Games Afternoons as
detailed above.
Short Mat Bowls
2pm on Friday 5th Feb in the Douglas Suite.
Chess Club
We have now acquired the equipment to allow
residents to play short mat bowls and it is
intended to have an introductory session for all
those interested both those with experience or
beginners. The game is not too strenuous and
is a good way to get a little light exercise in a
social atmosphere. Tuition will be available for
those who are new to bowls.
Auchlochan Choir
Players will either need to wear flat shoes (not
trainers with ridged soles) or carpet slippers.
Stockinged feet is also acceptable.
The first open session will be at 2pm on Friday
5th February in the Douglas Suite and all
residents are invited to come along to play or
observe.
As above, games will take place on a
Wednesday afternoon in the Courtyard
Lounge.
5 people have expressed an interest in forming
an Auchlochan Choir. If you have the required
skills and would you be interested in leading a
choir, with assistance from Customer Services,
please do let us know.
Other activities will be added to the
programme in due course. Watch this space!
If there is anything that you would like us to
consider for inclusion in the activities
programme, please contact Customer Services.
Page | 4
One Day Together in Scotland Event
Monday 29th February 2016
2pm-4pm in The Douglas Suite
On Monday 29th February MHA will be holding
a day conference in Westminster Central Hall,
London, to explore why later life matters. A
sprinkling of celebrities has been added to
make this day a special one and there will be
an evening service of celebration with special
guests.
You can find out more at
www.mha.org.uk/oneday
To mark the occasion in Scotland residents of
Auchlochan Garden Village and tenants from
our MHA Scottish Schemes are invited to join
together in The Douglas Suite on Monday 29th
February to enjoy an afternoon of musical
entertainment provided by Harpist, Ruby
Marshall and Scottish Entertainer, Johnny
Weir.
Enjoy tea/coffee and a selection of cakes and
scones while you are entertained by our
visiting musicians.
For catering arrangements, we would be
grateful if you could let Customer Services
know that you will be attending by Thursday
25th February.
Our bus will be available for transporting to
and from the Douglas Suite. If you would like
transport to the event, please book a seat with
Customer Services by Thursday 25th February.
Auchlochan Bus
Please be advised that for anyone using our
bus, small laminated cards are available from
our bus drivers on boarding the bus, which
contain the driver’s mobile number as well as
the main switchboard number and emergency
contact numbers for Homecare, Bankhouse
and Lower Johnshill. If you do not already have
a card, please ask the driver for one the next
time you are on the bus. You can either hand
the card back when returning home or you can
keep the card for future bus journeys.
Can I please ask that anyone using the bus to
attend a medical appointment in the village
alerts Customer Services at the time of booking
a seat on the bus. Customer Services will
include the information on the drivers schedule
for that day.
It has been brought to my attention that the
bus doesn’t always keep to the scheduled pick
up times at the various pick up points around
the village. Our drivers do their utmost to keep
to the scheduled times but there are occasions
where delays are unavoidable. In the event of
the bus arriving at pick up times before the
scheduled time, the bus will not leave until all
residents who have booked a seat are on
board. For anyone who is not familiar with the
pick up times, I have included these at the back
of the Village Voice on page 24.
On behalf of the Customer Services Team,
Wendy Wilson
Customer Services Manager
Please note that there will be no afternoon trip
to Lanark on Monday 29th February.
Page | 5
News from Homecare
February will see many changes within
Homecare at Auchlochan. The new care plans
are launched, the new key worker system has
been launched and it will see the arrival of two
new team leaders and some new general
assistants.
Jane Weir has worked for Auchlochan for 23
years and was one of the team leaders when I
arrived last February. Jane has decided to step
down as team leader and work as a general
assistant so that she can concentrate on caring
for the residents. I would personally like to
thank Jane for all her support over the past
year and I know she will continue to support
me in her new role. This created a vacancy for
a team leader post which has been filled by
Lynn Allison. Lynn previously worked at Lower
Johnshill as the deputy manager and I would
like to take the opportunity to welcome Lynn
to the homecare team. Lynn will work closely
with Jane and I to allow her to settle in at
Homecare.
Alexis Carnwath has also left Homecare and we
would like to wish her every success for future
ventures. This has opened up another team
leader position that we hope to fill this month.
Jeanette Davidson, General Assistant who
worked on nightshift has transferred to
Bankhouse so we would like to wish her all the
best. I have been interviewing for this position
and I hope to have news on a new nightshift
general assistant next month.
We would like to welcome Lauren Mooney to
the team. Lauren has joined the twilight team
and is settling well.
Throughout the village the Homecare team
deliver care and support to residents living
within their own homes. Recently I have
realised that people living out with the
courtyard are not entirely aware of the services
that the Homecare team deliver which has led
to some people thinking that needing
additional support would require a move to
Bankhouse and Lower Johnshill when
realistically they could be living within their
own homes for years to come.
The Homecare team aim to assist people to
maintain their independence and live within
their own homes for as long as possible. Some
people are able to tend to all their own needs
however the care workers are on hand as
support. Some people have the care staff
there to assist with things they can no longer
manage on their own, for example assisting
with assistance with buttons, laces and
jewellery. There are others who require care
staff to assist them with their morning and
evening routines and other aspects of their day
to day life but with the support from the care
staff they can remain within their own homes.
However, Homecare staff can support
residents outside their home also. If you have
an appointment to attend, whether it be
doctor, hospital, dentist or otherwise, residents
can book a car and have a care worker
accompany them. The care worker does not
have to come into the appointment with you
but can if you would like the moral support.
Anything discussed within appointments is
confidential and care staffs are not allowed to
discuss this with anyone.
Homecare are on site for all residents to assist
them with their day to day lives at home and
support them access their community both
within the village and out with.
For more information on the services provided
by Homecare or the costs involved please see
the contact details at the end of the article or
email christine.reeson@mha.org.uk
As of the 1st of January, I took over the
management for the domestic team and I look
forward to working with them. I will be
working alongside Karen Williams, Domestic
Supervisor, to learn the ins and outs and day to
day of the domestic routine. Any queries
regarding domestic services should now be
directed to Homecare.
Page | 6
Homecare would like to send our deepest
condolences to the families of Mrs Lauriston
(The Courtyard), Mrs Kruse (The Courtyard)
and Mrs Findlay (formerly of The Courtyard).
The 3 ladies passed away in January and I know
they will be missed by all the Homecare staff.
We would also like to say farewell to Mrs
Rodgers who left The Courtyard last month and
send her our best wishes in her new home.
Kind Regards
Christine Reeson
Housing with Care Co-ordinator
Please remember that the Homecare Team are
here to assist in anyway we can.
They were singing along
with him and some
residents enjoyed a dance
as well. We look forward
to Michael’s next visit in
March.
Our residents also enjoyed a traditional Burns
Supper on 25th January.
Jo-Jo the music therapist was at Bankhouse and
residents enjoyed spending time with her on an
individual basis and are looking forward to her
next visit.
Please call us on 01555 893571 or 893592
Shrove Tuesday is on the 9th February this year
and Libby will be making pancakes for the
residents to enjoy.
News from Bankhouse
The ladies are doing well with their knitting and
we have made enough rectangles to make 5
blankets for the Hope Hall to send to a children’s
hospital in Africa.
Hello friends
That’s us almost through January already,
where does the time go?
The residents at Bankhouse recently enjoyed
an evening with Scottish entertainer, Michael
Patterson.
We hope to use the quiet room for the arts and
crafts group. Everyone is welcome to join us.
Residents have been enjoying balloon tennis
where they have fun whilst getting some gentle
exercise.
Mr J Murdoch and Mrs I Love both celebrate
their birthday on the same day in February. We
wish them many happy returns when it comes.
For information: Chiropodist – next visit is on Tue 9th Feb
Pampering Service – next visit Tue 16th Feb
Hairdresser – visits every Wednesday.
Kind regards
Libby Henderson - Social Care Facilitator
Page | 7
Chaplaincy Chatter
Dear Friends,
some very lonely people helped to meet that
special someone.
In a few weeks time it will of course be
The new residents’ lounge is a useful and
'Valentines Day'.
attractive facility and has been well received by
Roman emperor outlawed marriage as he
all who have used it. The addition of a piano
wanted all the fit young single men to be
makes it possible for us to hold regular services
conscripted into his army, while married men
and residents are looking forward to gathering
were exempt from service.
together for fellowship and worship. The first
disobeyed and married any young couple who
of these services will be held on Wednesday
17th February at 2.30 p.m. and residents will be
consulted as to how often they are held
thereafter. These gatherings are open to all
Auchlochan residents and we look forward to
The legend goes that the
St. Valentine
came to him, and for this he was put to death.
We could say, he died for love, and because of
this, he is considered the patron saint of those
in love.
seeing you there.
When I was just starting out in my Christian
The Audio Library has been moved to the
life, I came upon a verse from Jeremiah 31
bookshelf in the new lounge and soon we hope
which spoke to my heart of God's love, "I have
to install a listening station, with CD player and
loved you with an everlasting love; I have
headphones, to enable residents to listen to
drawn you with loving kindness". I just thought
books in comfort.
Now over to George Hunter, our chaplain to
Bankhouse and Courtyard…
"wow! That's for me", and it is, but it is for all
of us. From then on, I refer to this verse as
'God's Valentine Card'.
Every blessing,
Of course, there are many verses in the Bible
Cliff.
that speak of God's love for us, too many to
mention, the most famous being John. 3:16
which I learned as a wee boy in the KJV, " For
God so loved the world, that he gave his only
I'm not really a fan of reality television, too
begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him
much shouting for me. But one programme
should not perish, but have everlasting life".
that interests me is 'The Undatables'. As the
We see here how all encompassing God's love
title suggests, it is about people who for one
is. He loves not just those who love Him. But
reason or another, find it difficult to meet
even those opposed to Him. He loves all with
others, or to establish relationships. It can be
that same everlasting love, no one is unlovable
funny, tragic, but also very moving as we see
in His eyes or in His heart.
Page | 8
Valentine cards will be covered with red hearts,
which many see as the universal emblem of
love, but for us there is something that speaks
more powerfully of God's amazing, everlasting
Communion Services
love for His world- The Cross. In Ephesians 3,
Paul prays that the Ephesians' may grasp with
all the saints ".....how wide and long and high
and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this
The next monthly Communion Services, which
are open to all Auchlochan residents, are being
held at: -
love that surpasses knowledge". I believe Paul
The Retreat – Mon 8th February at 3pm
is describing the cross here, whose upright
Lower Johnshill – Wed 24th February at 2.30pm
reaches down from heaven to earth, and
Bankhouse – Thu 25th February at 2.15pm
whose cross-beam stretches from one end of
the universe to the other. It is the cross that
above everything else speaks of God's love for
us, a love that Paul describes as 'surpassing
knowledge'. Yet it is a love that we can know
and experience through the power and witness
of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us.
Paul's prayer must be ours too, that not only
we ourselves, but that all people everywhere
come to a personal knowledge of this love.
This is a love that we cannot keep to ourselves,
it is a love we are called to share. Perhaps
A Remarkable Friendship
Following the funeral for Mrs Jean Kruse, her
stepson, Roy Kruse spoke about this friendship
in a letter to friends at Auchlochan. “Among
those who came to the service was Cathie
Arthur, who was a close friend of Jean's in
Zambia and Scotland. Cathie arrived at Mansa
mission in July 1949 two days after I was born
and used her nursing skills to assist my mother
with her firstborn for the first two weeks of my
life. She then moved to Mambilima Mission
(Johnson Falls) where she served for many
years”.
there is someone we know who believes
themselves, not possibly 'Undatable' but
unlovable, we can put them right, we can tell
them that there is indeed a special someone
who loves them just the way they are, loves
them with an everlasting love.
God bless you,
George
Page | 9
News from
Mentally reviewing the past 12 months prior to
our Annual General Meeting on 21st January
was a rather pleasant experience for me this
time round.
Not for self-congratulation,
though, since most of the actual administrative
work is handled by our Secretary, John Turner,
and Treasurer, Tom Roy. As a result, probably
my most onerous job, as Chairman, is to
compile these monthly ramblings for the
Village Voice !
And that’s what our Group is all about;
arranging for members and guests an
interesting, informative and, above all,
enjoyable programme of guest speaker
meetings, together with some visits to outside
venues. We’re hoping to expand that by
arranging some midweek “jaunts” of our own
over the next few months. If that seems like
“your thing”, gentlemen, we’d love to welcome
you into our midst.
NOW, how many of you recognise
this ?
But it was a pleasure to recall 10 general
meetings (the July visit by McTears Auctioneers
being a “bonus”) at which the guest speakers
and range of topics, without exception, were
warmly received.
For example, who could not have been
impressed by that extraordinary lady, Olivia
Giles, quadruple amputee, whose talk in May
resulted in our total of £800 donated to her
500 Miles charity?:
or by the skill of
Auchlochan’s own Gordon “The Stickman”
Gilchrist who described his hobby to our
December meeting, and displayed some of his
products ?
Four of those meetings were open to all
Auchlochan residents, in addition to members
and their guests, and a number of appreciative
comments were received. I am happy to say
that a few open meetings will be held again
during the coming months – watch this space.
Although they were not specific Men’s Group
events, some of us also enjoyed the Saturday
trips to such as the Riverside Museum in
Glasgow and the National Museum of Flight in
East Lothian. Much to my regret and a number
of others, we had to miss the “historic” steamhauled journey on the new Borders rail line
early in October. Those who did manage to go
thoroughly enjoyed the experience, I am told.
Of course, it’s part of The Great Wall of China,
one of the world’s most famous landmarks and
apparently visible from a space shuttle – some
of you may even have walked part of it (the
Wall, that is, not the space shuttle). This is to
be the subject of our guest speaker’s
presentation on 18th February at 10 a.m. in the
Retreat Atrium. My feeling is that it will be
another meeting not to be missed.
Better still, this is to be the first of our
promised OPEN MEETINGS for 2016, and I am
looking forward to welcoming a significant
number of other Auchlochan residents, male
and female, as well as our own members and
their guests, of course.
It would be a particular pleasure to welcome
you among them.
My regards to everyone, as always,
Jim Neilson
Page | 10
News From
The celebration of Robert Burns Birthday was
held on Monday the 25th January in the
Douglas Suite corridor in fine style by over 70
residents and friends. Rev Cliff Jackson chaired
proceedings with great aplomb. The haggis,
conveyed by chef Joe Fagan, was piped in by
Hannah Jackson.
After dessert Maureen
asked the comic question
“Is a dove a doo dad, is a
doo a dove?”. Which tried
to explain the difference
between the language of
the Scots and English.
The Rev Cliff Jackson then gave The Toast to
Burns.
After the supper we were heartily entertained
by Alastair McDonald and the company joined
in with a number of Burns songs. The evening
was drawn to a close by Cliff Jackson.
The address to the haggis was performed by
the legendary Alastair McDonald in fine style.
A great start to the evening.
At this point we must mention the wonderful
supper provided by Be Different. Joe Fagan
and his team once more provided an excellent
meal enjoyed by all.
Burns night is a celebration of the life, poetry
and music of Robert Burns. It is traditional on
this night to recite poems by Burns or in the
style of Burns. Maureen Douglas decided to
recite A Man’s a Man For a’ That and The
Rights of Woman, whereas, Marion Swindell in
her own inimitable style
decided to recite her own
poems in the style of Burns.
Her rendition of The Wazzle
Bird had the audience in
stitches.
If you attended and enjoyed the ACE Burns
Supper please let us know.
For future
reference we are always looking for
contributors to our evenings. If you feel able
to help we are particularly looking for readers
of Burns poetry for next year.
Page | 11
Our next quiz is being held on Thursday the
18th February at 6pm in the Douglas Suite
corridor. Michael Thomas has kindly offered to
be Quizmaster for the evening so Marion and I
will be taking part. We think this is Michael’s
way of finding out how little knowledge we
really have.
The usual format applies of contacting
Maureen on 890815 or Marion 896926 to book
for the evening. The cost of this including
supper will be £7.00 per person. You can book
as a team or on your own. If you have any
special dietary requirements please let us know
at time of booking.
We are sorry to say that we need to know of
any cancellations 24 hours in advance as the
catering costs still have to be met.
Contact details:
Maureen Douglas 890815
Marion Swindell 896926
Winter Wildfowl on Fountain Loch
The Wazzle Bird
a poem by Marion Swindell
Now Rabbie Burns, a man of words
said nothing about the Wazzle bird.
Now Wazzles are sae common here
their cheerie call ye often hear.
So why the bard ne’er penned a line
about a bird wi’ feathers fine
is quite a mystery tae me
perhaps he wisnae here tae see
this feckless, glaukit , glorious bird
whose e’en an feathers are absurd.
That flies up to the highest height
Then dives tae the ground wi’ a’ his might
Perhaps for that reason Burns ne’er saw
This glorious bird o’ them a’
The Power above in all he makes’
Ne’er gi’ed the Wazzle ony brakes!
And so with crashin’ screechin’ sound
The Wazzle bird hit the ground
And dazzlin’ feathers fell all o’er
and the Wazzle Bird was no more.
But fear ye not that’s not the end
A few more lines, I have penned
Although the Wazzle has no feathers
He loups away into the heathers
and there he learns to live in peace
Wi’ the greatest of them all - The Haggis!
Photo supplied by Miss J. Angus, The Retreat
Photo supplied by Mrs A. Aspinall, Retirement Apts
Page | 12
Film Afternoon
The Auchlochan Playreaders
We started our monthly
film show yesterday, the
25th January, the first of the
New Year.
The film shown was ‘Saving Mr Banks’, a far
deeper
and
interesting
story
line
than
expected. It was not until Tom Hanks as Walt
Disney reaches into his own complicated
childhood and he discovers the truth about the
The Auchlochan play readers group was started
approx. 18 months-two years ago by Jean Love.
Initially the idea was put to those who were
interested in taking part that they would be
given a part and it would be read for the
groups own enjoyment.
Confidence grew and it was decided to put on a
performance of “Scrooge” in the Douglas Suite
presented as a reading of a radio play.
ghosts that haunt P.L Travers when they can
finally set Mary Poppins free.
On the 22nd February we shall be showing ‘Ruth
& Alex’ starring Morgan Freeman and Diane
Keaton as a couple considering selling their
apartment in Brooklyn and planning to
downsize for their senior years. They decide to
put their apartment on the market and over
one crazy weekend, they discover that finding
a new apartment is not about winding down
but starting a new adventure.
The group then joined A.C.E. to put on a
Murder Mystery play, once again in the
Douglas Suite. That proved a great success
with the Suite set out by A.C.E. as an Italian
Restaurant and with a meal supplied and
served by Joe Fagan and his staff.
Success was going to our Directors head and
she suggested that we might consider putting
on a Panto during the festive season; we were
inspired by our Directors enthusiasm. Hence
“All at Sea” was presented on the 15th January,
2016.
The film shows are on the 4th Monday of each
month, starting at 2pm in the Atrium of the
Retreat.
Newcomers are always made
welcome. We finish the afternoon with a cup
of tea/coffee which gives us the opportunity
for a chat and to meet up with old friends and
hopefully make new ones.
Audrey Groom
2 The Retreat
Great fun was had by all who took part. The
back room staff; The Scene Shifters and The
Performers. The reaction of the audience gave
great encouragement to the cast.
Thank you Jean for your foresight in starting
the group, your experience, guidance and
patience.
Now we are all wondering what comes next?
Members of the Cast.
Page | 13
All at Sea
The Auchlochan Playreaders sail to success
on a tide of laughter
The 40+ residents who braved a chilly January
afternoon to go to the Douglas Suite for the
Playreaders Pantomime were rewarded by
some great entertainment.
From the opening song, 'I do like to be beside
the seaside' to the finale an hour later, the
Douglas Suite rang with laughter, booing and
shout backs like 'it's behind you'!
Sailing across the
Seven Seas Sinbad the
sailor and his sidekick
Matty the Matelot
brave
sharks and
storms to find the
treasure and rescue
their friends Charlotte,
Abigale, and Evan,
from
the
wicked
Pirates Blackbeard, Sharkeye and Blackbeard's
nasty daughters Bella and Bertha.
All is not lost however as the Good Fairy
Clarabelle watches over Sinbad and Charlotte.
The treasure chest is found and with the help
of the audience and some magic words, is
opened to reveal a pair of silver slippers.
Much to the disgust of the nasty daughters the
only person the slippers fit is Charlotte and in
true Panto fashion all is forgiven and everyone
lives happily ever after.
The cast was as follows: Sinbad:
Jim McNally
Matty:
David Rees
Sharkeye:
Robert Bray
Evan:
Robert Fraser
Bella:
Margaret Gemmil
Clarabella: Eileen McNally
Blackbeard: John Turner
Charlotte: Maureen Bray
Abigale:
Grethe Dillon
Bertha:
Audrey Groom
Crew - Scene setters, props, music, sound,
understudies: Susan Beattie, Jane Murray, Marion Swindell,
Maureen Douglas
Congratulations to all who took part,
Jean Love.
Page | 14
The Notice Board
Monday 29th February, 2pm–4pm
Douglas Suite, Auchlochan
On Monday 29th February MHA will be holding a day conference in Westminster
Central Hall, London, to explore why later life matters.
A sprinkling of celebrities has been added to make this day a special one and
there will be an evening service of celebration with special guests.
To mark the occasion in Scotland residents of Auchlochan Garden Village and
tenants from our MHA Scottish Schemes are invited to join together in
The Douglas Suite on Monday 29th February
to enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment provided by
Harpist, Ruby Marshall and Scottish Entertainer, Mr Jonny Weir.
Enjoy tea/coffee and a selection of cakes and scones.
Please book a place with Customer Services on Tel: 01555 893592
by Thu 25th Feb
Page | 15
The Notice Board
St Johns Lunch Club
Memory Café
1pm – 3pm
Tuesday 9 Feb. in the Douglas Suite
th
Are you worried about your memory?
Do you have dementia?
Do you care for someone with dementia?
Come along to this free drop in café where you
can meet people and access information and
support. The café will be on the 2nd Tuesday of
every month in the Douglas Suite.
For those of you who attend the
Lunch Club at St Johns in
Blackwood, the next lunch will
take place on
Thursday 25th February.
An opportunity to come
together to chat/share over
some lunch.
Transport is provided. Please
contact Customer Services for
details.
Lanarkshire Festival of Male Voice Choirs
The Town House, Hamilton
Friday 1st April
Tickets £12
Transport (if required) £6
Please telephone Marion on 896926 by 26th February if you would like to go.
Page | 16
The Notice Board
Christmas Card Competition
‘Happy Landing’ by Robert Bray (a winner in 2013)
Calling all photographers!
Please wrap up warmly and get out with your cameras this winter, as we will be
watching out for the best digital winter images of Auchlochan for our charity Christmas
cards, which will go on sale in autumn 2016.
The competition is open to all residents and the rules are available from main
reception, so pick up your copy and get snapping!
Over 5,000 miles long
And 2,500 years old !
FILM AFTERNOON
Join us for a presentation on
The Great Wall of China
The next forthcoming attraction will be: -
“RUTH & ALEX ”
See page 13 for further details.
10a.m. Thursday 18th February
in the
RETREAT ATRIUM
Monday 22nd February
at 2pm in the Retreat Atrium.
A film will be shown on the fourth Monday of each
month. Everyone welcome.
Our first OPEN MEETING of 2016
AUCHLOCHAN
MEN’S SOCIAL GROUP
Page | 17
The Notice Board
AUCHLOCHAN
CHAMBER MUSIC RECITAL
THE DOUGLAS SUITE
MONDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2016
2.30 PM
A SELECTION OF PIECES FOR
FLUTE, VIOLIN, VIOLA AND CELLO
THE MOZART FLUTE QUARTET
SWEDISH FOLK DANCES ON THE NYCKELHARPA
JOANNA SHAW (FLUTE)
GABI MAAS (VIOLIN AND NYCKELHARPA)
REBECCA WEXLER (VIOLA)
JOJO LANDER (CELLO)
Page | 18
The Notice Board
Auchlochan
Residents
Committee
Under the terms of our Constitution four members of the Committee (one from each area
represented) are required to retire each year but are entitled to stand for re-election provided their
individual total service does not exceed nine years.
Accordingly, Mrs Maureen Douglas (Cottages) Mr Brian Cole-Hamilton (Courtyard) and Mr Jim
Neilson (Retirement Flats) will retire but offer themselves for re-election.
Each year residents are free to nominate anyone living within their area to serve on the Committee
irrespective of a ‘sitting’ member standing for re-election. The nomination of any person whose
consent for such nomination should have been ascertained must be notified in writing to MHA
Customer Services by 15 February. Thereafter MHA (Lesley McNeill) will seek separate confirmation
that the person nominated is willing to stand for election. Ballot papers will be issued by 1 March for
return no later than 18 March and the result will be declared at the Annual Meeting for all residents on
30 March 2016.
Miss Janet Angus one of Retreat representatives has indicated that for health reasons she will retire
from the Committee at the Annual Meeting and accordingly nominations are invited for this area and
the procedure to be followed will be identical to that stated in the above paragraph .

The Retreat knitting group will recommence on Friday 5 February
2016. We meet in the Atrium sitting area from 2pm to 4pm each
Friday. We would love to welcome new members.
We knit, and crochet, baby clothes to be sold in the bistro, the
proceeds going to missionary work in India.
We also knit blankets which are sent to various needy countries
by Hope Hall Brethren Church in Lesmahagow.
From time to time we are asked to make things for a particular project. We also enjoy a good blether!
If you cannot knit or crochet and would like to learn, there are projects suitable for beginners.
Please call me if you would like more information.
Ann Bernard Tel: 892234
Page | 19
The Notice Board
QUIZ
Quizmaster for the evening will be
Michael Thomas
Thursday 18th February at 6.00pm
In the Douglas Suite Corridor
Book your place with
Maureen on 890815 or Marion on 896926
£7.00 per person including supper
Book as a team or come on your own
and we will integrate you into a team
We are sorry to say that we need to know of any cancellations
24 hours in advance, as the catering costs still have to be met.
The Bistro
Shrove Tuesday Theme Day
Tuesday 9th February
To celebrate Pancake Day the Bistro will be serving freshly made
pancakes and crepes all day on Tuesday 9th February.
Enjoy a pancake with tea or coffee for the special price of £1.
Various other pancakes and fillings will also be available.
Page | 20
Italian Night
Auchlochan Village Bistro
Friday 19th February – 7pm
Starters
Breaded Mozzarella Sticks with Fresh Tomato Dipping Sauce
⋄
Calamari Rings and Lemon Mayonnaise
⋄
Pine Nut, Parmesan and Rocket Gnocchi
Main Courses
Beef Lasagne with Garlic Bread
⋄
Tagliatelle Carbonara with Toasted Parmesan Ciabatta
⋄
Margherita Pizza
Desserts
Tiramisu
⋄
Vanilla Panacotta with Rhubarb
⋄
Orange and Cranberry Pannatoni with Custard
Tea, Coffee and Biscotti
2 Courses £12.95
3 Courses £14.95
Please call the Bistro on Tel: 01555 668209
To make a reservation
Page | 21
Independent Living Outings – February/early March
The bus will commence pick-ups at 10.30am for leaving the Village at 10.45am unless otherwise stated.
Date of
Trip Saturday
6th Feb
Bookings
taken
from
1st Feb
13th Feb
8th Feb
Details
Overton Farm Shop & Butchery and The Oven Coffee Shop, Clyde Valley – Visit
Overton Farm Shop to purchase locally produced meats, cheeses, eggs, preserves,
puddings etc. All cattle and sheep are bred and reared naturally in the Clyde Valley
and the meat is prepared and butchered on-site in their state of the art butchery.
Seasonal fruit and vegetables and home grown potatoes available. Their products
are widely used in THE OVEN Coffee Shop where you can experience a wide range
of home baking and home cooking served at your table.
Chatelherault Country Park - commissioned in 1734 by James 5th Duke Hamilton,
the William Adam designed Hunting Lodge was built as a Kennel for the Duke's
hounds and horses. In 1987 the lodge was restored to its former glory and
reopened as a visitor attraction. The West Wing of the lodge contains the
Banqueting room, Duke's room and Duchess Room, which are all open for public
viewing. The gardens surrounding the hunting lodge contain an original design
Parterre garden, traditional bowling green, and herbaceous border which were
created by the Duke's gardener John Hossack in 1740.
Cost of
Ticket/Entry
if Applicable
Free
admission.
The Visitor Centre includes the Oaks Café, Reception / gift shop, and interactive
heritage exhibition, currently displaying the SLLC annual photographic competition
exhibition.
20th Feb
15th Feb
Livingston Designer Outlet & Shopping Centre, Livingston – if you have a passion
for shopping you'll love Livingston Designer Outlet, Scotland's largest designer
outlet with over 70 famous name brands at up to 60% off every day. Discover a
fantastic range of fashion & footwear, sportswear & outdoor wear, and homeware
& gift ideas all set in a relaxing, modern, friendly environment.
n/a
27th Feb
22nd Feb
Garrion Bridges Garden & Antique Centre - a privately owned Garden & Antiques
Centre with 44,000 sq. ft. of floor Space offering a unique and exciting shopping
experience with an ecletic mix of fashion, gifts, jewellery, plants, sweetie shop,
coffee shop, pet shop and an Alladin's cave of accessories. Also a 9,000 sq.ft
Antiques Department housing over 100 dealers. Ten small businesses are also
located in the centre consisting of The Mobility Shop, Kitchen & bathrooms, Wool
and Craft Shop, small jewellery department, Scottish Kilt shop, Tranquillity Candle,
Tranquillity Baby Department, Huts and Summer Houses, Artificial Grass Company
and Conservatories.
n/a
5th Mar
29th Feb
The National Museum of Rural Life (East Kilbride) - A unique partnership between
the National Trust for Scotland and National Museums Scotland. Discover 300 years
of farming and rural home life in the museum galleries. The museum combines an
exhibition building (with shop and cafe) and the historic working farm of Wester
Kittochside. Discover how 300 years of farming and rural home life have shaped and
altered Scotland’s countryside. The farm itself is still worked using techniques and
equipment from the 1950s. There's a historic farmhouse which was occupied by
the Reid family since the 1500s. The farm is managed to represent the 1950s, when
the horse was giving way to the tractor.
Free with
National Trust
Card (provided
by MHA)
Please contact Customer Services on 01555 893592 to book a seat. Please note that due to high demand, only a single
trip can be booked at any one time and bookings for each outing may only be made in the week prior to that trip. If you
have a suggestion for future outings, please contact Customer Services.
⋄⋄⋄
Page | 22
Auchlochan interest Groups & Events Calendars
Regular Interest Groups, Activities and Classes
Day/
Frequency
Time
Venue
Event / Activity
Details & Contact
Monday
Weekly
10am – 12 noon
The Craft Suite
(Village Centre)
Craft & Chatter
Group
Monday
Weekly
2pm – 4pm
The Craft Suite
(Village Centre)
Art Club
A group learning specific crafts (Easter eggs, Christmas
decorations, Cards etc). Contact: Grethe Dillon on Tel: 894677.
This is a group of amateurs who bring their own materials and help
each other. Tea and biscuits are provided. Contact Mrs Gorrie on
Tel: 895076.
Monday
Quarterly
2pm – 4pm
The Village Centre
Reception
Book Swap
Afternoon
*NEW Book Swap afternoons will take place quarterly on the fist
Monday of March, June, September & December
Monday
Monthly
2pm
The Retreat
Atrium
Film Afternoon
A film will be shown on the 4 Monday of each month. Everyone
welcome.
Tuesday
Weekly
2pm – 4pm
The Retreat
Atrium
Art Group
All welcome from amateurs needing advice to true masters of their
craft. Contact Tim Lucey Tel: 895405
Tuesday
Monthly
1pm – 3pm
2nd Tue of month
The Douglas Suite
Memory Cafe
Wednesday
Weekly
10.30am
The Douglas Suite
Tai Chi Class
Are you worried about your memory? Do you have dementia? Do you
care for someone with dementia? Come along to this free drop in café
where you can meet people and access information and support.
Wednesday
Weekly
2pm
Croquet Lawn
Croquet
(Seasonal)
2pm weekly as required. Contact Lesley Van Vilet or Anne Prees
for information. Tel: 892254
Friday
Weekly
2pm – 4pm
The Retreat
Atrium
Knitting Group
Contact Ann Bernard on Tel: 892234 for further information.
Friday
Weekly
2pm – 4pm
The Courtyard
Lounge
Games Afternoon
*NEW Join friends or come along and make new one at our
weekly games afternoon. A wide selection of popular games
available including Scrabble, Dominoes, Boggle, Cluedo, Connect 4,
Monopoly, Card Games, Jigsaws and more.
Friday
Weekly
2pm – 4pm
The Courtyard
Lounge
Bridge Club
*NEW Meet weekly to enjoy a game of Bridge.
Friday
Weekly
2pm – 4pm
The Courtyard
Lounge
Chess Club
*NEW Meet weekly to enjoy a game of Chess.
Friday
Weekly
7pm
The Retreat
Atrium
Games Group
If you enjoy playing cards and/or board games come and join a
mixed group of people every Friday evening. Contact Audrey
Groom on Tel: 445414 for further information.
Thursday
Monthly
(3rd Thu)
10am
The Retreat
Atrium
Auchlochan Men’s
Social Group
For further information on the Men’s Social Group, please contact
the group chairman, Mr Jim Neilson on Tel: 01555 445402.
th
Please book a place via Customer Services. See News from
Customer Services for further details.
Additional events which are taking place around Auchlochan throughout February
Date
th
Fri 5 Feb
Time
Venue
Event / Activity
Details
2pm
The Douglas Suite
Corridor
Short Mat Bowls
*NEW The first open session of ‘Short Mat Bowls’. All
residents invited to come along and play or observe.
Regular games will be added to the Activities
Programme following the first open session.
Tue 9th Feb
All day
The Bistro
Shrove Tuesday
Theme Day
Enjoy a freshly made pancake or crepe with tea or
coffee for the special price of £1.
Mon 15th Feb
2.30pm
The Douglas Suite
Chamber Music
Recital
A selection of pieces for flute, violin, viola and cello.
Mon 18 Feb
6.00pm
The Douglas Suite
Corridor
A.C.E. Quiz Night
Book your place with Maureen on 890815 or Marion on
896926. £7 per person including supper.
Fri 19th Feb
7.00pm
The Bistro
Italian Night
Please call the Bistro on Tel: 668209 to make a
reservation. See Page 21 for Menu.
2pm-4pm
The Douglas Suite
One Day Together in
Scotland
Residents of Auchlochan Garden Village join together
with our Scottish Schemes to enjoy an afternoon of
musical entertainment.
th
th
Mon 29 Feb
Page | 23
Chaplaincy Events Calendar – February 2016
Date
Time
Venue
Details
Sun 7th
3.00pm
The Douglas Suite
Alastair Noble
Sun 14th
3.00pm
The Douglas Suite
Alastair Simmons
Mon 15th
7.30pm
The Douglas Suite
Michael & Teenie Harcus (MUSIC)
Wed 17th
7.30pm
The Douglas Suite
Denis Watt (Hope Hall)
Sun 21st
3.00pm
The Douglas Suite
Gordon Roy
Sun 28th
3.00pm
The Douglas Suite
Rev. George Murray
Auchlochan Minibus Internal Pick Up Times
For Morning Internal Service
Lesmahagow & Tesco
For Lanark (Monday) &
Hamilton/Motherwell (Wednesday)
9.35am
The Retreat, Phase 1
1.10pm
Nethanvale (when occupied)
9.38am
Retreat, Phase 2
1.15pm
Retreat, Phase 1
9.40am
9.42am
Lower Johnshill
Cottages
1.17pm
1.20pm
Retreat, Phase 2
Lower Johnshill
9.44am
Nethanvale (when occupied)
1.22pm
Cottages
9.46am
Retirement Flats
1.23pm
Retirement Flats
9.50am
The Courtyard, at Barge
1.26pm
Courtyard, at Barge
9.55am
Village Centre Reception
1.30pm
Village Centre Reception
For Retirement Living
Saturday Outings
10.30am
10.34am
10.37am
10.39am
10.43am
10.50am
Retreat, Phase 1
Retreat, Phase 2
Cottages
Retirement Flats
Courtyard, at Barge
Village Centre Reception
⋄⋄⋄
We hope that you have enjoyed reading the Village Voice this month. As always if you have any items of news or suggestions
for the newsletter please contact a member of the Customer Services team on the number below.
Auchlochan Garden Village
Customer Services Team - Wendy Wilson, Terrie Pate, Barbara Dalzell & Amanda O’Donnell
Tel: 01555 893592 Email: auchlochan.enquiries@mha.org.uk
Reception is open daily: 9am - 5pm Mon to Fri and 9am - 12.45pm Sat & Sun
Page | 24
Beauty & Wellbeing
Our fully equipped Hair Dressing salon, Beauty Salon and Therapy Suite are located just off the Village
Centre reception. A full hairdressing service is provided and an extensive range of beauty and pampering
treatments. Some treatments are available in the comfort of your own home if preferred.
Hair at
Studio Wellbeing
Price List
Cut & Blow Dry …………
£12.00
Opening Hours
Blow Dry …………………
£ 6.50
9am – 4pm: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday
Shampoo & Set …………
£ 6.50
Call Trish on: 01555 668217
Dry Cut .......................
£ 6.00
Perms ………………………
£25.00
Colour ………………………
£25.00
Wellbeing Salon, MHA Auchlochan,
New Trows Road, Lesmahagow ML11 0JS
IN YOUR OWN HOME
N
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
O
N
A
L
B
E
A
U
T
Y
Extensive range of beauty treatments carried out in your
own home or within our Village Centre Beauty Salon.
Please contact Hilary for further information on the
extensive range of treatments provided which include: Skincare Treatments
Waxing
Electrolysis
MARY REID INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOL OF BEAUTY
ITEC
CIDESCO
C.I.E.L.
I.A.
Eye Treatments (eyelash tint, eyebrow shape/tint)
Threading (face, lip, chin, shape)
Body Treatments (exfoliation, massage, aromatherapy)
Hand & Foot Beauty (manicure, pedicure, artificial nails)
Gel Polish
Professional Make-up
Red Vein Removal
Hilary Corbet ITEC, CIDESCO, C.I.E.L., I.A.
Telephone: (01555) 892136
Mobile: 07850 167 402
Page | 25