Opinion

At long last the weather seems to be improving and many of our thoughts will be turning to thinking about the outdoors and, in particular, our gardens and outdoor spaces.

I really can’t fathom out what it is with boys and their toys.

It’s that time of year when your thoughts turn to sun-soaked beaches and foreign climates. And given the chilly temperatures that we’ve had to put up with in recent weeks is it any wonder that we are all longing for a sunny break.

With another Common-wealth Games coming to a close, I thought it would be fitting to write about the success of Team Scotland.

What is it about Brits and the weather?

When I was a child in Windsor Road in the 1950s our next door neighbour was a blacksmith at Smith and Wellstood’s famous foundry. Each day he rose at 5.30am and walked over a mile to Camelon to catch a bus to Bonnybridge. When asked why he did this his reply was simple: “Smith and Wellstood is a proper foundry son”. It was certainly one of Scotland’s best known and for nearly 150 years the firm gave work and life to the village. But unlike other local ironworks it had its origins far from home.

Sometimes I think we take our little country for granted. Scotland is an absolute cracker and we’ve been blessed with a home country which is not only extremely photogenic but pretty enviable too.

Officers from Falkirk are working with their national colleagues this week in raising awareness of stalking and the devastating effect it has on victims.

Can it really be four years since the Glasgow Commonwealth Games?

Strathcarron Hospice provides care for people with a terminal illness.

I don’t usually have a lot in common with film stars but it looks like Russell Crowe and I have both been filling our spare time with the same sort of 
activities.

It’s been widely reported recently how members of the public have come to the aid of Falkirk neighbours in need, showing that public spirit, bravery and quick reactions helped in very difficult situations.

I was in Glasgow last week when I realised Disney is trying to take over the world.

I’ve always thought I’ve been part of quite an active family, not just in the literal sense but because we’re always on the go.

A PACK of Cubs was flying high when they learned about how Edinburgh Airport ensures all its flights take off on time … even if it means passengers carrying their own falcons.

It has been another busy month squeezing in plans around my marathon training.