Lockdown hair care exercising the mind

Dear Editor

I have appreciated the exercises displayed by your fitness expert Susie Black, many of which reminded me of similar contortions I had to do during 5.30am sessions on Edinburgh Castle Esplanade some 60 years ago.

These exercises have been of some benefit to me during these months of being confined to barracks, however, could you ask Susie if she has any advice on hairstyles?

I favour a stylish short back and sides but after more than three months without the attentions of a barber and the possibility that even when they open there could be long waiting lists, I would appreciate Susie’s suggestions.

Should I go for bunches or pigtails? Or perhaps, by Christmas, I could sport a mullet? A style and set would be a suggestion too far.

David M Phillips Rattray Dear Editor

On Friday, June 12, more than 550 pipers across the world played the haunting march The Heroes of St Valéry from doorsteps, gardens and streets.

This recognised the service of the Second World War ‘Forgotten’ 51st Highland

Division which remained on the continent to fight the Nazis after the evacuations from Dunkirk.

Despite their incredible bravery, around 10,000 men were finally encircled and captured at the Normandy fishing port of St Valéry-enCaux on June 12, 1940.

The aim of our 80th commemoration was to ensure these men were remembered.

St Valéry impacted on every town, village and hamlet across the region and beyond.

Eighty years on, those same communities were joined by pipers from across the globe as they paid their respects.

As well as becoming the largest piping ensemble in history, a day-long programme of virtual events,

learning resources for young people and social media tribute messages achieved a reach of 169 million people.

The event was supported by three armed forces community charities: Poppyscotland, Legion Scotland and RCET – Scotland’s Armed Forces Children’s Charity. Each does vital work today.

To each and every piper, we say: ‘Thank you’.

And to those that support the work of those charities we say: ‘Many, many thanks’.

Most of all, to the men of the 51st, our thanks, gratitude and respect.

Sir Alistair Irwin and Neil McLennan, on behalf of Legion Scotland, Poppyscotland, RCET and the St Valéry 80 Committee