No view at the top

“The recent large photograph in The Courier of the Black Cuillin reminded me of a hitch-hiking trip to Glenbrittle with two

friends from school,” emails Allan Bullions of Leven. “It was our intention to climb Scurr Alasdair. Unfortunately, we sat in the youth hostel for two days while the rain fell incessantly. On day three, there was a slight improvement so we set off, much to the surprise of older climbers.

“However, we did get to the top, but with no reward of a marvellous view – most of the time we could hardly see our hands before our eyes. When we got back and bathed in a stream beside the hostel, the occupants were convinced we were lunatics.”

A bit more respect

“I remember when we were young, three score and 10 was your expected life span which, due to the NHS and a more affluent lifestyle, has changed a lot – to the stage where reaching the age of 100 is almost commonplace in this country,” says a reader.

“Unfortunately, since the onset of Covid, being over 70 is to be in the danger zone and 80+ (my age) is in the critical zone of dying from the virus. This has been the message from medical and science experts – and can be substantiated by statistics – but do we have to be told at every briefing that we are past our ‘best-by’ date?

“Relatives and friends in a similar age group to me are terrified to go out of their house and, if they have to go for essential

items, are so relieved when they are back in the safety of their home. On the other hand, many of the ‘younger generation’ carry on with the attitude that if they were to catch the virus the effects would only be comparable to a dose of the cold.

“Let’s have a bit more respect for the senior members of the population. Perhaps if this ‘I’ll do what I want’ attitude was given more thought then a Christmas family gettogether would be more likely. Please give the senior citizens more consideration. I’ve even read that the vaccine – when it comes – would be wasted by putting the elderly at the head of the queue for treatment!”

Supportive member

“Regarding the photograph of Cupar Probus Club members in the column on Thursday, the more observant will see Jimmy Shand – a very supportive member until his death,” emails Robert Oliver of Cupar. “He is seated, fourth from left.

“More than 70 members were shown in the photograph and, in such times, we peaked at over 90 members and had to create a waiting list. We are still thriving today with between 60-70 members. The name probus is derived from PROfessional and BUSiness but, nowadays, we welcome any lad with an interest in an active mind and good company.”