THERE'S a packed events calendar across Helensburgh and Lomond this weekend as local clubs, societies and other voluntary organisations welcome the start of spring.

We've counted no fewer than 16 events being run by 15 different clubs, groups and other organisations taking from Friday evening right through to Sunday night, in addition to the regular weekly events happening throughout the area – and those are just the ones we know about!

In (very rough) chronological order, here's what's going on in the area over the next few days – whichever ones you choose, make sure you have a fantastic time and enjoy the nice weather (and remember to change your clocks on Sunday morning too!)...

Friday 7-9pm – Open evening with local artists and craft makers at the Oak Tree Gallery (contact the gallery in advance).

Friday 7.30-11.30pm – Cardross Youth Group ceilidh at Cardross Parish Church Halls.

Friday 7.30pm-midnight – Retro 70s/80s disco for Helensburgh Explorers at Helensburgh Sailing Club.

Saturday 9am-5pm – 'Spinathon' fund-raiser for Helensburgh and Lomond Carers SCIO at Ardardan Estate, Cardross. Contact Pamela or Sharon on (01436) 670555 if you'd like to book an hour-long slot to help raise funds – you just need to raise £25 in sponsorship in advance.

Saturday 10.30am onwards – Rosneath Primary School golden jubilee celebrations (starts with parade from Rosneath Co-op to the school, followed by presentations and displays).

Saturday 10.30am-12.30pm – Messy Church at Helensburgh United Reformed Church, West Princes Street.

Saturday 11am-1pm – Oasis Crossreach annual spring tea at McAuley Place, Garelochhead.

Saturday 11am – Lomond and Clyde Community Orchestra spring concert at Victoria Halls.

Saturday 11am-4pm – Antiques valuation day at the Hill House (organised by the Lomond and Argyll Decorative and Fine Arts Society).

Saturday 12 noon-3pm – Pirate-themed spring fair at St Joseph's Primary School.

Saturday 7.45pm – Helensburgh Orchestral Society concert at the Victoria Halls, featuring Peter and the Wolf (narrated by River City star Dawn Steele) and works by Verdi and Brahms.

Sunday 10am-12.30pm – Car boot sale at Loch Lomond Shores (overspill car park) in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Sunday 2pm – Friends of Duchess Wood work party, meeting at Strathclyde Court garages.

Sunday 2.30-5pm – Daffodil tea for St Michael's Church at High Auchensail Farmhouse, Cardross.

Sunday 3pm – Helensburgh Orchestral Society concert at the Victoria Halls, again featuring Dawn Steele's narration of Peter and the Wolf – the programme also features several short pieces for children.

Sunday 7pm – 'Sunday at Seven' concert at Helensburgh Parish Church featuring performances by pupils at Lomond School.

Look out for our coverage of the best bits in next week's Advertiser!