Officers searched a premises on Chapel Street in Carluke on April 9. Officers searched a premises on Chapel Street in Carluke on Wednesday, April 9. The two men, aged 49 and 51, were due to appear at Airdrie Sheriff Court on Thursday, April 10. Detective Inspector Scott Robertson said: “Drugs cause misery in our communities, and we are committed to bringing those responsible for the supply and sale of illegal substances to justice. “This result underscores our commitment to the Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce and highlights our efforts to disrupt the activities of those involved. “The public has a vital part in helping us to target and trace those involved, and we encourage anyone with information or concerns to contact us via 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.” STV News is now on WhatsAppGet all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Follow STV News on WhatsAppScan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country '+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.webview_notification_text+' "+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_title+" "+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_text+" We use cookies to improve your experience of using our website Please let us know if you agree to the use of these cookies The Church of Scotland's ‘Talking Ministry' series shares personal stories from those serving in Christian ministry along with resources filled with questions prayers and reflections to help encourage reflection on how God might be calling you at this time Rev Dr Elijah Obinna speaks about the faith journey which has led him from South East Nigeria to become parish minister at Carluke: St John's Parish Church where he was ordained through The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) in 2002 Rev Dr Elijah Obinna joined the Church of Scotland in February 2016 as a parish minister he is the minister at Carluke: St John's Parish Church and interim moderator of Cairngryffe Dr Obinna is the first minister to be called to the deferred union between St John's and fellow Carluke church St Andrew's I was born a second child into a Christian family of five was a committed Christian and an ordained ruling elder of PCN is also a committed Christian and like my father I was enabled to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ at an early stage of my life and participation in worship both at home and in the church My father and mother both were true Christian role models They shaped the lives of my siblings and I but in terms of leading us to commit our lives to Christ as our Saviour at a very early stage he was a very strong pillar in my early Christian formation I started studying the Bible on my own and speaking about Christ but when I was eight I spent the school vacation with my uncle where I had a deeper personal encounter with Christ and joined some children's groups which were committed to prayers and preaching on the road but I know we were speaking about God's love to those who were passing by it was always my desire and prayer to serve the Lord I committed to the service of God within and beyond my local congregation at Amasiri There I worked with young people and adults and served at prayer meetings and Bible study and it became clear to me that was what I was being called to do In 1996 I applied to PCN through my Parish and was called to an interview and was admitted to Trinity (Union) Theological College in Umuahia and completed a Diploma of Theology with Distinction and a Bachelor of Arts in Religion I was licenced as a Minister of the Word in July 2001 and posted to serve my probation period in St Stephen's PCN so it is 20 years since my ordination took place I served in St Stephen's until I was appointed by the General Assembly of PCN as the pioneer personal assistant to the Principal Clerk then I had an opportunity to study for a Master's degree at the University of Edinburgh I was attached to St Stephen's Comely Bank in Edinburgh as a Faithshare student I completed my Master's with Distinction and started studying towards a PhD in 2007 when my wife I had an offer from St Giles' Cathedral to be an assistant minister I served as a member of the African and Caribbean committee of the then World Mission Council I went back to St Stephen's Comely Bank as a pastoral assistant and also served as a development officer of the Boys' Brigade my family and I went to the University of Missouri where I worked as a visiting assistant professor I taught in the school and I also served in a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and worked with the Agape Fellowship I did not feel a sense of call to full-time ministry here It was in the US that I began to sense that call and expressed my interest to the then Ministries Council My family and I went back to Nigeria in 2012 and apart from my busy congregational ministries I was a senior lecturer and director of postgraduate studies at Hugh Goldie Lay/Theological Training Institution and later served as the national director of PCN's Directorate of Lay Development and Leadership Training (DLDLT) I attended the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland and met the recruitment team and was given a certificate of eligibility The following year we had a celebration to mark the centenary of the death of Scottish missionary Mary Slessor with events in Nigeria and Scotland I served as the secretary of the National Organising committee and we had a week-long event in January with guests from the Church of Scotland including Very Rev the then-Moderator of the General Assembly In April I led the Nigerian team visiting Scotland and while I was here I glanced through Life and Work and saw a vacancy for Carluke: St John's so I made the phone call and submitted an application In February 2016 the whole family moved to Carluke – and we are still here What I didn't realise was that Carluke has a strong connection with Nigeria already who served in Nigeria throughout the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) as a medical missionary of the Church of Scotland the people in Carluke prayed for her and raised funds for the hospitals where she worked One of those hospitals was where my mother later worked as a nurse and the hospital where our second son was born That was very helpful for me and my family in settling into life in Carluke My family and I had no doubts that God had already gone ahead of us before we arrived We have been blessed by a wonderful congregation and a wonderful community Following a deliverance to the General Assembly in 2018 I worked with the committee that produced the Special Report on Lessons from Africa In that report we talked about Bible studies and worship that should be at the heart of a believer's life 24/7 We talked about testimony and people being able to share their story We also talked about equipping members for ministry That was something I did in Nigeria where I was national director of the DLDLT I strongly believe that ministry is for all the people of God We need to recognise people's gifts and find a way to provide space for growth and to equip them for the work of ministry That is something I am very much interested in and am encouraging in our congregation In the last six years I have seen great gifts being released among our members and to me that has been amazing These gifts are already there so we are simply working alongside the congregation and community to promote what God is already doing among God's people People talk about Scotland being a secularised country There is a place for the Church in the community and there are lots of things we can still do to share the love of Christ I would say: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart acknowledge him and he will direct your path." I would encourage the person to explore that and not rely on their own strength or understanding We are only privileged to be God's partners At the end of the day it is God's will that will prevail Stepping through a door that is ajar takes us into what lies beyond leaving one place behind and stepping into another Stepping through a door can be an exciting or daunting experience as we leave the relative comfort of where we have been to step forward into a new reality follow me," it can be an exciting or daunting experience as we leave the relative comfort of the life we know to respond to the call of God Take the first disciples who were called by Jesus They were called to leave their fishing nets behind 18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.' 20 At once they left their nets and followed him They were in a boat with their father Zebedee 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him Had Simon Peter and his brother Andrew been builders would Jesus have called them to build people up Had they been doctors would Jesus have called them to heal people Had they been farmers would Jesus have called them to grow people in their faith 7 ‘Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks In the gifts that God has already given us we can respond to the invitation by asking questions that we might step through it into whatever lies beyond What is stopping me from responding to God's call who calls us out of darkness into marvellous light Help me to use the gifts you have given me to serve you Help me to follow you in the sure and certain knowledge that you are always with me If you would like to consider how God might be calling you to serve at this time you may want to discuss further with your minister or be in touch with your Presbytery to explore local opportunities If you are interested in exploring a call to the recognised ministries of the Church, you can find more information on our vocations page and can contact ministry@churchofscotland.org.uk for a Discernment Conversation with one of the Recruitment Team Contact us Men’s Shed are not just helping health and skill-sharing - they are now also helping the planet proving that sustainability and community wellbeing go hand in hand Both Men’s Shed groups have installed photovoltaic (PV) panels to actively reduce their carbon emissions Stonehouse Chairman Graham Curtis said: “At a time of rising costs within the Shed it is important to review our running costs “With the better weather and daytime clear sky we are now seeing the benefit of our Solar Panels provided through the Climate Emergency and Resilience Fund “With the installed batteries and the storage now showing a downturn in our power drawn from the grid we are optimistic that this will show further benefits into the summer months.” added: “We'd like to say many thanks to the council for supporting our Men's shed in Carluke with funding for the solar panels “It has helped us to reduce our bills and our carbon footprint at the same time as keeping our members warm when they visit our shed “The installation is good for our community “It is also helping us to do our bit in preventing climate change by reducing the greenhouse gases we produce.” The PV panels not only support the move to a more sustainable future but also help the Sheds remain affordable Executive Director of Community and Enterprise Resources said:  “Installing their own PV panels mean lower costs “That’s a great comfort to group members who use these spaces to connect reducing loneliness and improving mental and physical wellbeing.” “Installing these PV panels is a celebration of forward-thinking investment that the council was delighted to help make a reality thanks to the funding opportunities available.” “This is yet another great example of the council’s commitment  to meet the sustainability needs set out in the council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change strategy.” Anyone who is interested in Men’s Shed can either find an existing shed or if none are available in your area why not start your own shed Employment support for care experienced young people Bold course set for health and social care in South Lanarkshire Elmer having a jungle adventure in Lanark next month Award for charity that connects people with jobs New Education director for South Lanarkshire Pupils’ voices heard as school wins award Have your say on future of council buildings Good_sports_are_a_perfect_match_for_each_other Find out more about what's happening in South Lanarkshire The cab was found abandoned after crashing near St Lukes Avenue, in Carluke. The cab driver was threatened with a knife after two males flagged him down in Langbar Crescent, in Easterhouse, at around 11.35pm on Thursday. The carjackers then made off in the blue Skoda, which was later found abandoned after crashing into a tree near to St Luke’s Avenue in Carluke. A second car was reported stolen from outside a property in Lanark Road in Carluke, in the early hours of Friday morning. The black Mercedes EQB was later found abandoned in Hallhill Road, Barlanark. The incidents are treated as being linked, police said, A 17-year-old male has been arrested and charged in connection with the incidents. He is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Monday. Enquiries remain ongoing to trace a second male. Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 4370 of Thursday, August 22, 2024. school partners and religious representatives for the prestigious annual event which is dedicated to the Jewish people and others who suffered in The Holocaust under Nazi persecution and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) 2025 was ‘For a Better Future’ and it encouraged those gathered to take the opportunity to come together and take actions to make a better future for all HMD 2025 marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz Birkenau – a significant milestone and made particularly poignant by the dwindling number of survivors who are able to share their testimony.  It also marks the 30th anniversary of the Genocide in Bosnia Chair of South Lanarkshire Council’s Education Resources Committee said: “A huge thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s thought-provoking and emotional tribute “The pupils all gave truly inspirational performances which were incredibly moving “It’s so important that we take time to reflect and learn from the past and help ensure a better future for everyone.” The pupils who performed at the event were from Carluke High School St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School Calderglen High School and Strathaven Academy The event culminated in a performance of Peaceful by Teresa Jennings performed by the Carluke Learning Community Primary Choir The evening came to a close with a moving Candle Lighting Ceremony led by guests of honour Rabbi Mendel Jacobs and Timothy Lovatt President of the Jewish Representative Council Holocaust Memorial Day event 2025 was hosted by Carluke High School Head Teacher Steve Duffy alongside his school captain Ailsa Mackie and vice captains Daniel Barnstaple and Leah Headley The drop-in for people living with dementia and their families at St Andrew's Church Carluke.(Image: Stuart Vance/ReachPlc)A Clydesdale project has received £5000 to support the growth of community-led work for people living with dementia St Andrew’s Dementia Hub in Carluke is one of 27 projects who have been given a boost by Age Scotland’s ‘Encouraging and Supporting Grassroots Activity Fund’ It aims to address gaps in support for people living with dementia and unpaid carriers and break down barriers to support and empower people to live well within their communities said: “Receiving this funding will have profound impact on our hub and local community It will enable us to enhance the quality of life for individuals living with dementia “This investment will ensure our hub community is better equipped to respond to the growing needs of those affected by dementia fostering a more inclusive and compassionate environment for everyone.” The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now Get all the news from your area – as well as features sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android The dementia hub is part of St Andrew’s Parish Church in Carluke’s Mount Stewart Street The support the hub offers is for the whole family at any stage – and also at times of bereavement People are welcome to attend with or without a diagnosis and carers and wider family members are always welcome too An active team of volunteers offer support three times every week There is a drop-in on Tuesdays from 11.30am to 2pm an art class on Thursdays from 11am to 1pm and a dementia-friendly health walk on Fridays from 1pm to 3pm There is no charge for the support provided This is the third year of Age Scotland’s fund distributing cash and 2025 has seen the largest allocation to date totalling £349,393 across Scotland These grants have been enabled by the Scottish Government said: “We are delighted to announce the recipients of our third round of ESGA funding bringing our total investment in community-led dementia support to over £1 million “This year we made a conscious effort to ensure a broad spread of grant holders across Scotland particularly in rural areas where access to support can be more challenging “It’s inspiring to see such a diverse range of projects receiving funding which helps people living with dementia and families stay connected and supported in their communities From towns and cities to islands and remote areas these organisations play a vital role in empowering people to live well with dementia “We are incredibly grateful to the Scottish Government for their continued support which allows us to address crucial gaps in care and ensure that more communities across Scotland can benefit from this vital funding.” Maree Todd said: “Everyone’s experience with dementia is different and we are supporting people to live well for longer in their communities following a dementia diagnosis “This announcement represents a milestone in how we support grassroots groups and activities to play their part in this mission and I am delighted for each of the projects which has successfully applied for funding “With the support and guidance of the National Dementia Resilient Communities Programme Board the Scottish Government looks forward to continuing to work with Age Scotland to enhance the dementia experience in communities across Scotland.” Go to https://carluke-standrewschurch.org/drop-in-support/ for more on the hub * Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share! The first council-run event takes place in Lanark on Saturday 16 November The following day – Sunday 17 November – it’s the turn of East Kilbride Village with the switch on also taking place at 5pm The following weekend it’s Rutherglen’s turn with the lights switched on at 4.30pm on Saturday 23 November On the same day – Saturday 23 November, The Christmas Light Switch-On will illuminate Quarry Street in Hamilton, from 10am to 5:30pm, featuring a market, a visit from Santa, and a spectacular Christmas Parade departing from Castle Street around 2:30pm. This event is organised by Hamilton Our Town Business Improvement District. Full details of their festive events can be found on their website. The following day – Sunday 24 November – it’s the turn of Cambuslang, with the lights turned on at 4.30pm. Finally, Carluke’s Christmas lights will be turned on at 5pm on Saturday 30 November. Mac*Busted – the UK's Official Number 1 Tribute to Mcfly and Busted – will be performing at Lanark, East Kilbride, Cambuslang and Rutherglen. At the Carluke event The MacDonald Bros, who were fourth in the X Factor in 2006, will be performing.   At each of the council-run events, there will be Soundsational Choir, street entertainers and kids characters for all the family to enjoy.  Des Clarke from Heart FM will be hosting all the events except from the East Kilbride event which will be hosted by Ali Wright from Clyde 1.  Provost Margaret Cooper or Depute Provost Bert Thomson will be joined on stage by specially invited guests for the switching on of the lights. Provost Cooper said: “I hope as many people as possible come along to enjoy a bit of Christmas cheer. “The Christmas lights always help people get in the mood for festive fun and I am sure everyone will have a great time at the switch-on events.”   South Lanarkshire Council Almada Street, Hamilton, South Lanarkshire ML3 0AA The A73 Lanark Road, Carluke, between Goremire Road and The Taal restaurant, will be closed for resurfacing next week. The essential improvement works will require the road to be closed from 7am on Monday 2 September until 6pm on Friday 6 September. The signed diversion route will be A73 to Lanark, A706, A721, A73 and vice versa. Colin Park, the council’s Head of Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services, said: “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience that this road closure will cause. “But we are sure local residents will appreciate the long-term benefits following the short-term closure of this stretch of road. “I would ask all road users to allow extra time for their journey while this work is undertaken.” The A706/A721 Harelaw Roundabout, close to the village of Carstairs, will be closed between the A721 Carluke to Carnwath and the A706 Lanark to Forth road from 8am on Monday 3 March. Weather and resources permitting, the closure is expected to last for five days. A diversion will be in place via: (North) A706, A71, A73, A721 and vice-versa. (West) A721, A73, A706 and vice-versa. (South) A721, A70, A743, A73, A706 and vice-versa. Head of Roads, Fleet and Transportation Services, Colin Park, said: “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience these essential road works may cause. “We would ask all road users to avoid the area if possible, and if they cannot, then to take note of the diversion routes in place and leave extra time for their journey. “We hope all road users will appreciate the improvements when the works are complete.”  Win HappyPremiumSearch RayoclydelocalnewsTwo men arrested after £405000 worth of cannabis seized in CarlukeThey raided a premises on Chapel Street on Wednesday Two men have been arrested and charged after £405,000 worth of cannabis was recovered in Carluke earlier this week Officers searched a premises on Chapel Street and recovered the drugs Detective Inspector Scott Robertson said: “Drugs cause misery in our communities and we are committed to bringing those responsible for the supply and sale of illegal substances to justice “This result underscores our commitment to the Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce and highlights our efforts to disrupt the activities of those involved “The public has a vital part in helping us to target and trace those involved and we encourage anyone with information or concerns to contact us via 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.” Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app. Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited Company number: 1394141Registered office: Media House Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales VAT no 918 5617 01H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) Aldi is set to continue its expansion in Scotland confirming today it plans to invest more than £40m over the next two years The investment supports the retailer’s growth ambitions north of the border and will allow it to keep up with growing consumer demand having opened its first store in Kilmarnock in 1994 known for its commitment to delivering exceptional value and quality Scottish food and drink Aldi welcomed 58 million customers through its doors in Scotland and now has one Aldi store for every 49,000 people in Scotland with over 60% of households in Scotland shopping at its stores* the supermarket has also committed to extending or refurbishing six of its existing stores over the next two years Glenrothes and Stirling and further upgrades in Hamilton and Carluke the supermarket will launch a recruitment drive for over 100 new logistics team members to work at its Bathgate Regional Distribution Centre cheapest supermarket award for the third year in a row and has since scooped the monthly award every month this year so far with December’s results to be announced in January Aldi was also commended at the Scotland Food and Drink Awards 2024 which celebrates retailers’ sourcing of quality Scottish products Aldi was also awarded Confectionery Product of the Year for its Specially Selected Scottish Sicilian Lemon Shortbread Rounds Aldi’s commitment to Scottish products was also recognised in the National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) Shelfwatch survey which found throughout 2024 that Aldi stocked the most Scottish produce of all retailers which was conducted on behalf of farmers and crofters also found that Aldi was the only retailer to stock 100% fresh Scottish pork had the highest percentage (89.7%) of Scottish potatoes Much of this success can be attested to Aldi’s commitment to championing locally produced food and drink with the retailer currently working with more than 90 Scottish suppliers and stocks over 450 Scottish products Aldi announced a series of new supplier partnerships in 2024 including Dundee-based Baba’s Sauce and Glasgow-based Pie Sports The retailer also partnered with Aberdeen-based Fierce Beer to launch ‘Fierce and Friends’ which saw the brewery work with craft breweries across the UK to create beers brewed exclusively for Aldi Scotland Aldi also announced it would be doubling its everyday pork range and with support from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) Aldi’s extended pork range is now available across all of its 109 Scottish stores As well as a commitment to quality food and drink and building partnerships with local suppliers Aldi Scotland is also committed to giving back to the local communities the supermarket donated more than £50,000 to amateur sports clubs via its Scottish Sport Fund and over £10,000 to foodbanks through its popular Supermarket Sweep initiative with Supermarket Sweep celebrating its tenth year Regional Managing Director for Aldi Scotland said: “I’m very proud to reflect on a highly successful 2024 during which time we welcomed 58 million customers to our Scottish stores forged valuable partnerships with a range of new suppliers and celebrated 30 years of Aldi in Scotland “It’s remarkable to look back on how far we’ve come since opening our first store in 1994 I am extremely pleased that our presence within the Scottish market has continued to be recognised and celebrated this year with numerous awards demonstrating our unwavering dedication to providing locally sourced high-quality Scottish products at affordable prices we remain committed to reaching more customers than ever before with the opening of more stores and increased investment in Scotland “This move is a testament to our belief in Scotland’s vibrant economy and the exceptional quality of its suppliers We remain committed to championing Scotland and strengthening our relationships with local partners as we continue to expand and enhance our offering.” * Kantar data found that Aldi is shopped by over 3 in 5 households in Scotland with 1.62m out of 2.68m people buying from the retailer Grocery Trader is the bi-monthly magazine for the UK multiple grocery industry It is distributed in both printed and digital formats to named senior buyers and trading directors within the UK supermarkets Co-ops and convenience store chains and other key grocery organisations © Grandflame Ltd - All Rights Reserved Terms & Conditions Visits to all Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) in South Lanarkshire will now need to be booked in advance The advanced booking system comes into effect from Monday 2 September and bookings can be made from today (Monday 26 August) Use of the HWRCs remain free to non-trade South Lanarkshire residents so there will be no charge to use the new booking system Bookings are not required during the period from Monday 26 August to Sunday 1 September It follows a successful pilot period introduced at the HWRC in Carluke in 2022 and the decision to roll it out at all HWRCs was made at the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee back in June said: “The reasons for trialling the booking system were to reduce waiting times reduce incidents of abuse to staff and ensure that the South Lanarkshire facilities are reserved for South Lanarkshire residents “We believe that introducing the booking system at our other HWRCs will have the same positive impact that the trial period at Carluke has had “We are aware that during busy periods the congestion on roads around our centres can have a negative impact on local residents and businesses and the new system should help alleviate that once the new booking system is bedded in and people are familiar with it it will provide an improved service for local people as it has done in Carluke.” To book a slot from today, residents should go to the council website A SCOTS town has been named Britain's property hotspot with homes selling quicker there than any other area of the country Rightmove's Speed of Market Tracker found that houses in the commuter-friendly town find a buyer in an average time of just 15 days Giffnock in East Renfrewshire was second with homes selling in 16 days and Uddingston in Lanarkshire was third at 17 days But one Lanarkshire town took first place for the second year in a row The average home in Carluke costs £170,468 compared to £363,881 in Giffnock and £219,481 in Uddingston The property website revealed the top 10 places in Britain where homes change hands the fastest are all in Scotland Experts say good transport links, homeworking and increased space is attracting buyers to the towns. The average time to find a buyer in Scotland is now 33 days, making it the quickest market in Britain. The national average is currently 60 days and East Midlands takes the longest with an average of 67 days. Tim Bannister, property expert at Rightmove, said: "Carluke has taken the top spot again this year for the fastest market across Great Britain, underlining the continued speed of the market in this part of Scotland. suggesting buyers are looking for easy access to the city centre whilst enjoying the increased space that being further out can bring "In London commuter areas such as Walthamstow and Dagenham are leading the way in finding buyers the quickest likely driven by well connected transport links and more affordable prices compared to central zones "By contrast, more exclusive central locations like Knightsbridge and Chelsea are taking longer to find buyers, as these high-end markets typically move at a different pace." Nine out of the ten slowest markets to find a buyer are coastal towns including Brixham in Devon and Minehead in Somerset Terraced houses are currently finding buyers fastest at 51 days while detached houses are taking the longest to sell at 73 days Toby Leek, president of the estate agency body Propertymark, said: "There are many different reasons why some homes sell at a much quicker pace than others and some aspects are based on amended lifestyles since the pandemic "With homeworking much more of a normality many people are choosing locations they may not have considered previously "People are also hunting down desired locations with advantageous transport links to metropolitan areas rather than living directly in those areas as prices are typically lower which provides further flexibility in their affordability "We expect momentum to progress even further with lenders adjusting their range of mortgage offerings and some starting to offer sub-four per cent deals." Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click here A second vehicle was reported stolen from outside a property in Lanark Road in Carluke, in the early hours of Friday morning. Officers said a taxi driver was threatened after two men flagged him down in Langbar Crescent near to Edinburgh Road in Easterhouse, at around 11.35pm on Thursday. One of the men presented a knife before making off in the blue Skoda which was later found abandoned after crashing into a tree near to St Lukes Avenue in Carluke. A black Mercedes EQB was later found abandoned in Hallhill Road, in Barlanark, near Glasgow. Officers believe the incidents are linked and are appealing for witnesses including people who were waiting at a bus stop on Edinburgh Road at the time of the incident. Detective sergeant Scott McNulty said: “Enquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances surrounding this robbery and we are appealing for any potential witnesses to get in touch. “From CCTV it is understood that a number of people were waiting at a bus stop on Edinburgh Road at the time of the incident and we would like to speak to anyone who may have seen what happened. “We would also urge anyone who may have seen a blue Skoda taxi or a black Mercedes EQB being driven erratically in the Carluke area in the early hours of Friday morning, or who may have dash-cam footage of significance, to please come forward.” Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Wishaw and Carluke constituency for Labour.(Image: Hamilton Advertiser)Pamela Nash is returning to parliament after a nine-year absence as the new Labour MP for the revised constituency of Motherwell The Labour politician previously represented neighbouring Airdrie & Shotts for five years from 2010, when she was first elected at the age of 25 and officially became the “baby of the house”, the traditional title for the youngest MP She will now be returning to Westminster next week after defeating incumbent SNP representative Marion Fellows Ms Nash said in her acceptance speech following the count and declaration at Ravenscraig sports centre: “I’ve never been prouder than I am standing here as the new Labour MP for Motherwell people have voted for change – they voted for investment in and renewal of our NHS a genuine living wage and a Scotland that looks outward.” saying: “Marion’s time in parliament will be particularly remembered for her tireless work in getting justice for subpostmasters for her personal commitment to improving the lives of those living with disabilities “I want to thank her for the contribution she has made on these issues and also to the people of Motherwell & Wishaw She and her team have conducted themselves with dignity and respect throughout this campaign which has helped make it a fun and memorable experience.” Subscribe for full access to West Coast Today or Register for 1 free article per week Subscribing gives you access all areas of the website unlimited articles and access to the digital editions of The Oban Times Argyllshire Advertiser and Lochaber Times including 18 years of archive editions You will also be helping to support local independent journalism and local jobs Subscribe Register   Login I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties and will only be used  to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen You are not permitted to copy, republish, reproduce any text, photos, graphics, sounds from this website without written permission from the editor@westcoasttoday.co.uk IPSO is an independent body which deals with complaints from the public about the editorial content of newspapers and magazines COPS are hunting two motor rampage thugs who stole a taxi at knife-point before crashing it  into a tree and nicking a Mercedes The men flagged down the blue Skoda in Langbar Crescent near Edinburgh Road in Glasgow’s Easterhouse on Thursday night at 11.35pm One of the pair threatened the driver with a knife before they made off with the vehicle It was later discovered abandoned 20 miles away after crashing into a tree near to St Luke’s Avenue in Carluke A second vehicle was reported stolen from outside a property in Lanark Road The black Mercedes EQB was later found abandoned on Hallhill Road, Barlanark, Glasgow Detectives are now appealing for information to find the two thugs.Detective Sergeant Scott McNulty said: “Enquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances surrounding this robbery and we are appealing for any potential witnesses to get in touch. Emergency services were scrambled to the scene on the Westbound carriageway near the Townhead Interchange after the alarm was raised at around 7 am Police officers and two ambulances attended the smash One person was taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary The condition of the patient is not yet known The election will take place on Thursday 4 July and in the East Kilbride and Strathaven constituency the candidates are: In the Hamilton and Clyde Valley constituency Clydesdale and Tweeddale (which takes in the Clydesdale area of South Lanarkshire and is administered by the Returning Officer for Dumfries and Galloway Council Wishaw and Carluke (which takes in the towns of Carluke Braidwood and Forth within South Lanarkshire and is administered by the Returning Officer for North Lanarkshire Council Returning Officer Paul Manning said: “We would encourage everyone to use their vote in the forthcoming UK General Election “Please be aware that for this election, to vote in person you will need an acceptable form of photo ID to show to the polling staff. More information on this, as well as about the election in general, is available from the council website.” Carluke Men’s Shed have moved into new premises following a successful Community Asset Transfer The group were formerly based at the OneCan site in Carluke but had outgrown their space and needed a permanent base of their own to operate from They identified the former cemetery keeper's house on Kilmory Road Carluke and have successfully applied for and been granted a five-year lease said: “We are delighted to have recently taken lease of 1 Kilmory Road Carluke “This Asset Transfer was completed and the keys handed over with the amazing help in all aspects of this transfer by the council “Their support made this all possible.  “We now have a happy bunch of people working hard to breathe new life into this building Onwards and upwards and many thanks for all the assistance.”  Men’s Sheds across South Lanarkshire are supported by the council’s Seniors Together project which aims to improve the quality of life of older people across the area The project has a dedicated men’s shed development worker who also supports the South Lanarkshire Men’s shed network Paul said: “It’s great news that Carluke Men’s Shed have new premises which will allow the group to grow attract new members and continue with the great work they are doing in the community.” The Community Asset Transfer scheme is operated under the Community Empowerment Scotland Act 2015 and entitles any suitably constituted community group to apply to lease or purchase land from relevant authorities which includes local councils If you are a local community group and would like to know more about the opportunities for asset transfer in the South Lanarkshire Council area, email: communityassets@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Jack Brown intices us to Carluke with the Clyde Valley Tour Jack Brown is a content creator from Lanarkshire Bob and Jean Barr first met at the Belhaven Café in Wishaw and married in the Craigneuk Belhaven Parish Church on 22 June 1963 They moved from Wishaw to Carluke on Boxing Day 1963 and have lived there ever since started work in Colvilles and retired from British Steel in 1997 having worked in Research Commercial and Dalzell Plate Mill as Technical Manger.  Jean worked as teacher starting at Crawforddyke Primary and retired as a Head Teacher at Greenhill Primary in Coatbridge Jean was on the Board of the Scottish Wildlife Trust and both volunteered with the Junior Wildlife Watch Both are life members of the Carluke Parish Historical Society.  Stevenson Society and has given talks locally.  Bob played badminton and attended aerobics classes for many years He has been a season ticket holder at Fir Park Both are members of the U3A. Bob chaired the Carluke and Lanark Parent Teachers Association for a number of years and after retiral became chair of Carluke High School Board for a time Erik is a retired geologist who has two children Eleanor is an orthotics and prosthetics engineer in Norway. Her husband Dougie (also from Carluke) works in the same clinic The couple were visited by South Lanarkshire Depute Provost Bert Thomson and Deputy Lord Lieutenant David Russell to help celebrate their Diamond Wedding Anniversary Depute Provost Thomson was delighted to present the couple with flowers a special bottle of whisky and a certificate from the council while the Deputy Lord Lieutenant represented the King and passed on to Bob and Jean a certificate to mark their wonderful achievement Rev Dr Elijah Obinna first came to Scotland to study for a master's degree But it was only after he left Scotland that he began to sense that this was where he was being called to serve both elders in The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) Dr Obinna knew he was destined to become a minister and was ordained through PCN in 2002 he achieved a distinction in his master's degree studies and eventually went on to complete a PhD While at university he also served as a Faithshare student and later pastoral assistant at St Stephen's Comely Bank and as an assistant minister at Edinburgh's St Giles' Cathedral he never considered making his Scottish stay more permanent until he went to the USA where he taught at the University of Missouri while also preaching at a local church and working with refugees from Rwanda I had no intention of serving in full-time ministry here "It was in the US when I started prayerfully thinking about what happens next that I began to sense that call." He returned to Nigeria with his family, but expressed an interest in becoming a minister with the Church of Scotland and was given a certificate of eligibility. Then, when he returned to Scotland in 2015 to participate in celebrations marking the centenary of Aberdeen-born missionary Mary Slessor, he saw a vacancy for a minister at Carluke: St John's Church which is set to unite with fellow town Kirk St Andrew's the more I had the sense that this was the place in February 2016 the whole family of six moved to Carluke – and we are still here!" When he arrived at Carluke an unexpected connection with his home in Nigeria provided further confirmation that the family had made the right decision One of the St John's elders he met at his induction was a former Church of Scotland medical missionary Dr Ann Jackson who had worked in Nigeria throughout the Nigerian Civil war (1967-1970) "One of those hospitals where she worked was where my mother later worked as a nurse and the hospital where our second son was born so she knew the area I came from," Dr Obinna said "That was very helpful for me and the family to settle into life in Carluke It was clear to us that God had already gone ahead of us before we arrived It was a powerful way of starting ministry We have been blessed by a wonderful congregation and a wonderful community." Dr Obinna also believes that Scottish Christians can learn from their counterparts in his home country He was one of the authors of The Special Report on Lessons from Africa to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland These include encouraging Scottish Christians to testify about their faith and make that faith a bigger part of their everyday lives As PCN's former national director of Lay Development and Leadership Training Dr Obinna also wants to see steps taken to encourage more members to take an active role in leading worship This is something he has encouraged within his own congregation at Carluke He said: "In the last six years I have seen great gifts being released among our members and to me that has been amazing so we are simply working alongside the congregation and community to promote what God is already doing among God's people." Although Scotland is seen as an increasingly secular nation Dr Obinna believes there is still a hunger for God among its people "There is a place for the Church in the community and there are lots of things we can still do to share the love of Christ," he said the Talking Ministry series will share a personal story from those serving in Christian ministry as well as discernment resources filled with questions prayers and reflections to help encourage your own reflection on how God might be calling you Obituary - Very Rev Dr James Simpson 1934-2024 Moderator honours Chariots of Fire Olympic hero in 100th anniversary service Minister says it is a 'tremendous honour' to be elected Moderator of the General Assembly The alert sent shares in the builders' merchant tumbling by as much as 10% in Monday morning trading. The group said the cuts come as part of plans to save £9m a year, which will see it shut a factory in Carluke in South Lanarkshire, while also reducing shifts and production at other sites and restructuring its commercial team. The role reductions add to about 150 job losses at the end of last year. Marshalls – headquartered in Elland, West Yorkshire – announced the latest jobs cull as it warned over full-year profits, with a result in the final six months set to be “markedly” lower than the first half and dashing hopes of a recovery. The alert sent shares in Marshalls tumbling by as much as 10% in Monday morning trading. Marshalls said like-for-like sales slumped by 13% in the six months to June 30, while it expects to report a 27% slump in interim underlying pre-tax profits, to around £33m. It said it has faced “persistent weakness in new build housing and private housing RMI (repair maintenance and improvement), which are key end markets for the group”. “The sustained high levels of inflation, increasing interest rates and weak consumer confidence means that the board anticipates the group’s performance in the second half will be below its previous expectations,” Marshalls said. It said it is taking “decisive action in responding to the challenging trading conditions”, which has “regrettably” led to the role cuts and factory closure. Activity in Britain’s housebuilding sector has slowed down rapidly, with developers cutting home completions, as buyer demand has fallen due to soaring mortgage rates and worries over the economic outlook. This has impacted Marshalls’ landscape products arm in particular due to its exposure to new build housing and domestic refurbishment work, with half-year revenues in the division slumping by a fifth to £174m. Marshalls said: “Whilst previously anticipating a recovery in market conditions in the second half of the year, the board is now of the view that an improvement in the second half performance is unlikely given the macro-economic backdrop. “In addition, the board has chosen to reduce production volumes with a negative impact on operational efficiency in order to manage working capital. “Taking these factors together, and in the absence of a recovery in demand in the group’s end markets, the board believes that the result in the second half will be markedly weaker than the first half, and consequently expects to deliver a result for the full year that is lower than its previous expectations.” Carluke YFC 80th Anniversary Fundraising Secures Impressive Sum for RSABI organised by Carluke Young Farmers Club (CYFC) for its 80th anniversary has resulted in almost £5,000 being raised for agricultural charity RSABI Celebrations included an 80th anniversary brunch at Carstairs Village Community Hall with members of the CYFC and family enjoying a fun-filled day of eating raffles and live entertainment to raise money for the charity with a cheque from the day being presented at the club’s Annual General Meeting on March 12th CYFC held a series of events with the aim of bringing past present and future members together to fundraise for RSABI Alongside the impressive fundraising at the brunch the CYFC organised a Three Peaks Challenge with 75 past and present CYFC members climbing a total height of 2,191m to reach the summit of the three peaks of Lanarkshire – Green Lowther the climbers secured an impressive £2,459 for their efforts taking the total raised by the CYFC to £4,679 said: “We had a series of great fundraising events and initiatives which we wanted to organise in aid of RSABI due to the vital work they do in supporting those in the rural industry “We’re grateful to everyone who came along and chipped in either at our brunch or Three Peaks Challenge Carluke Young Farmers Club 80th Anniversary Secretary said: “We had a wonderful time organising our fundraising events and want to thank everyone who donated RSABI initiatives such as their #KeepTalking campaign are so important to the agricultural community The campaign encourages everyone to look out for one another and come together which is what we did in order to show our support for their cause.” RSABI added: “We are very grateful to the Carluke Young Farmers Club for their support and for helping to raise vital funds for RSABI the events have also been a great opportunity for farming folk to get together and enjoy each other’s company something we are passionate about promoting via initiatives like our #keeptalking campaign.” RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk RSABI are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data that we maintain about you. As part of GDPR we would like to verify that you are happy to receive marketing emails from us about our activities and how we continue to help people in Scottish agriculture. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. View our Privacy Policy in full Website Powered by T'Go Creative It looks like the page you’re looking for is no longer here