Building equipment theft probe POLICE are investigating after a theft of expensive building equipment from outside a Greenock school.

An electric booster pump was stolen from Lady Alice Primary, in the town's Inverkip Road.

The theft happened overnight last Monday and has sparked an investigation, with officers appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information can contact Greenock police office on 492500 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


Windfarm plan talk PLANS for a massive windfarm in the hills above Greenock were discussed at a community council meeting.

Residents attending the Greenock Central Community Council talks raised concerns about the �45m proposal.

Natasha Willis, chair of the community council, said noise pollution was brought up as a potential problem.

But she added: "We are looking for more feedback from the public about the plans before we take a position on it." Greenock based developer 2020 Renewables is consulting the public on its bid before it submits a formal planning application.

They plan to apply for permission for up to 10 turbines, which would be 110-metres tall.


RBS closure anger THE looming closure of the Royal Bank of Scotland branch in Gourock town centre has been brought up in the Scottish Parliament.

Stuart McMillan MSP raised the issue at Holyrood after worried local residents lobbied him for action. He has asked finance secretary John Swinney what the Scottish Government can do to ensure the bank listens to its customers.

He said: "My constituents are aggrieved with the proposed closure and what this will mean for the service provided."
MP meets local groups VOLUNTARY groups and older people are being invited to meet with Inverclyde's MP to discuss issues affecting them.

There are two meetings - one for uniformed volunteer organisations tomorrow from 2-3pm. The other is for older people on Wednesday from noon-1pm. Both take place at The Square restaurant in Cathcart Square, Greenock.

If you would like to attend, call Mr McKenzie's office beforehand on 791820.


Club campaign wins support A CAMPAIGN to save a Gourock social club has had a massive public response.

Royalle Social Club president John Stewart recently voiced his concerns in the Tele about the future of the club, which is struggling financially.

But since then they have organised two sell-out fundraisers - and there are high hopes for the future.

John, of the Royal Street club, said: "We need to get members to use the club more regularly. That is what is going to keep us open.

"We have had a great response so far and our fundraisers have been very well supported." The club raised over �1,000 at a recent fundraiser flagged up in the Tele.

Now they hope that an AGM later this month can rally more support, followed by a sell-out Elvis Tribute night next month.


Chance to make a will A FREE will writing scheme is being offered to Inverclyde residents.

Marie Curie Cancer Care has joined forces with solicitors in the area to launch its 'Free Wills' scheme for those aged 55 and over.

Solicitors taking part include Patten & Prentice (Greenock), Neill Clerk & Murray (Greenock & Gourock) and Kingsley Wood & Co (Kilmacolm & Bridge of Weir).

The scheme runs until 31 May.


Castle to reopen after repairs NEWARK Castle is to reopen after repairs costing �50,000 were carried out.

Historic Scotland were forced to shut down the popular visitor attraction for four days over the Easter holidays.

The decision was taken to protect the public while scaffolding was removed.

A spokeswoman for Historic Scotland said: "As scaffolding is directly above the entrance we took the decision to close the site for visitor safety during these dismantling operations.

"We may have to close the site again for one day on Monday 8 April if dismantling takes longer than anticipated."
Plans for housing development COUNCIL planners are scrutinising blueprint for a residential development on former dockland.

Clydeport has applied for permission for new housing at a site off Lithgow Way, Kingston Dock, Greenock. As well as the residential development, associated access, open space and landscaping work would be involved.

A recommendation on the application is expected soon.


Teaching the parents MUMS and dads will be taught by pupils during a special event at Clydeview Academy.

Children from S1 to S3 will run lessons across different subjects to demonstrate what they have learned during a 'Teach the Parents' programme.

The event is being hosted by the school parent council and the Clydeview Academy Communication Group.

The 'Teach the Parents' evening takes place on Tuesday 23 April.

Refreshments and entertainment will be provided.


Charity music concert AN evening of live music will raise the roof - and money - for charity.

The Co-operative Funeralcare band is hosting a concert on Saturday 27 April in St John's Episcopal Church in Union Street, Greenock.

As well as raising funds for the band, money will also be donated to the Carers' Trust.

The concert starts at 7.30pm and tickets, which can be bought at the door, cost �10 and �8 for concessions.

For more information contact Martin Stack on 07565 403092.


Next council meeting THE next full meeting of Inverclyde Council takes place this week.

It will be held on Thursday from 4pm in the council chambers.

It is open to members of the public who wish to attend.


Bowling club opening COUNCILLOR Terry Loughran will represent Inverclyde Council as Gourock Bowling Club hosts its opening day on Saturday.

The season gets under way with the big ceremony on Saturday at 2pm.