Children in East Renfrewshire can learn a new language next week.and raise funds for charity at the same time. Estrellas Brillantes, which translates as ‘Shining Stars’, is to host a summer club from Monday, July 26, to Friday, July 30, with no prior Spanish knowledge necessary. It is the brainchild of Rachel Peebles, 40, whose love of languages stems from her nine years in Bolivia, where she spoke Spanish every day while working with families in a Christian community project. After returning to East Renfrewshire, Rachel decided to start a Spanish club, teaching babies, toddlers and children of primary school age. The summer club will be held at Cartsbridge Church, in Busby, using crafts, songs and other activities to teach the language.
But time has not been a great healer for his heartbroken mum, Tracey Sherry. She was left devastated by the loss of her son, whose body was found at a flat in Kerr Street, Barrhead. Now Tracey has described how the trial of Molly Down, who was Shaun’s partner, added further strain as she seeks closure over his death. Ms Down, 24, was accused of assaulting the 31-year-old Barrhead dad in Kerr Street on June 6 last year, repeatedly punching him on the head and striking him on the body with a sharp implement. However, she walked free from Paisley Sheriff Court after being found not guilty.
WALKERS and pet owners are being warned about toxic algae found near a popular Barrhead trail. Concerns have been raised after a high concentration of blue-green algae – also known as cyanobacteria – was found in water at the Balgray Reservoir. Blue-green algae may appear as green or greenish-brown scum on the surface of water and can contain toxins that are harmful for animals if ingested, even in small quantities. Dogs can swallow this algae by drinking from an affected waterway or while licking their fur after going for a swim. People visiting the trail are being warned not to swim, paddle or fish in the reservoir and to be cautious of allowing their dogs to swim or drink there.