Much to look forward to after turbulent times from 2016

LOOKING forward to 2017, Scotland leaves behind one of the most turbulent years in recent memory.

In these tempestuous times, the challenge is to search for the positivity and resilience that is all around, even if it does not seem to be in national news.

Last week, the Courier met ex-grenadier Philip Heard, who dedicates his life to giving war veterans free family holidays.

No matter how much attitudes or military technology changes, Mr Heard told us that the experience of war remains the same.

As Mr Heard said: ‘Today people look at war differently. They ask why is it worthwhile? Why do we do this?’

The questions also asked include: ‘How could Brexit have happened?’ ‘How did Trump win?’ ‘How could so many icons leave us in one year?’

Perhaps it is right to ask these questions, but in these testing times Mr Heard says look at the resilience of past generations who, as Mr Heard said, ‘knew [they] were fighting for Queen and country and that was it.’

Thankfully, we don’t have to look too far to find charity in Kintyre.

From Mr Heard’s selfless work in Glenbarr to Campbeltown rallying round to raise money for brave Dalintober pupil Kurt Smiley, resilience and courage is all around.

2017 will be an exciting year. Campbeltown’s own purpose-built cinema will reopen and it will be state-of-the-art, perhaps even the best in Scotland.

Perhaps the next building project will take off if targets can be met for the Seasports’ plan.