The recent bad tempered and poorly managed TV debate may have given Alex Salmond the edge on debating techniques or TV performance. But he certainly failed again to provide the answers and evidence needed to justify Scotland separating from the UK.

He also has invented his own alphabet. In Salmond speak we don’t have A, B, C and D. We have A and 3 B’s. Alex Salmond couldn’t explain just how he could guarantee a currency union with the rest of the UK when the rest of the UK is saying this wouldn’t happen because of the economic dangers involved. Mr Salmond then said he had 3 plan B’s, presumably including the At the same time he has said Scotland would refuse to accept a share of the UK debt. Economists have pointed out the risks which this involves. It would lead to higher interest rates for mortgages and borrowing. It would lead to huge public sector cuts, affecting health, education and more. We would lose control over the key elements which affect our economy, threatening jobs as well as services. We are only a few weeks away from a vote which could damage Scotland for a long time. We are being asked to leap in the dark, based on a gambling prediction from Alex Salmond. The TV debate proved we still haven’t been given the facts we need.

Not a load of rubbish One of my constituents, who has already made a name for herself in the art world with her ceramics, is now enjoying further success by turning rubbish such as broken tiles, empty bottles and other unwanted items into works of art.

Talented and respected Teena Gould, who has a new studio here in Renfrewshire, is offering to share her skills with locals. I’m told Teena is holding a workshop at her Rosehill Studio on Well Road, Kilbarchan on Saturday October 4 from 10am until 4pm. If you fancy going along call 01505 705007 or email teena@teenagould.com Parker’s Way I knew Derek Parker well as a constituent, historian, athletics coach and journalist and think Renfrewshire Council’s decision to name a passage near Johnstone Town Hall Parker’s Way is a fitting tribute to a man who shed light on so many of the secrets of Renfrewshire’s historic towns, villages and countryside.

Derek was also passionate about the countryside, Elderslie where he lived and Johnstone where he was a well known community activist. Managers at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, where he was a ranger for as time, are also considering plans to name a walking trail in his honour. Derek would never have expected such accolades but I think he would have been quietly pleased.

Cash help to carry on learning Many young people who would like to further their education are hindered by a lack of cash and perhaps don’t realise they can apply for an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) to help them stay in education beyond the age of 16. If you are studying for 21 hours or more you may qualify for £30 a week during term time which could open the door to new learning opportunities.

Applications have to be made by Tuesday, September 30. Local youngsters can call 0141 577 3760 for more information or to request an information pack.