Successful National night at the Stag Hotel

Laura Pollock, multimedia journalist from the National newspaper, gave a talk at the recent The National at the Stag evening.

Also present was Ailsa Raeburn, chairperson of Community Land Scotland, who is also the chairperson of Eigg Heritage Trust and has been a director on the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust.

They were both really good speakers, with thoughtful questions from the audience.

Laura gave a guide on how young people find their news. She proposed that their ability to interrogate online information and links can lead to a much more in-depth understanding of issues that are new to them, depending on the sources, of course. All of the staff on the National are under 35.

Ailsa went over the startling statistics of how much of Scotland is owned by so few people, many owners living abroad. The implications and benefits of community ownership, both rural and urban were discussed.

Ailsa was passionate about how this needs to change. She described the help that has been given to people through Community Land Scotland, and its ongoing work.

Music for the upbeat night was provided by Craig McIntyre, of Inveraray, including his own piece The Settled Will, which is a quote from the late John Smith.

A spokesperson for the group said: “We are hoping to run a series of these events, called Exploring Independence. We have agreement in principle from Craig Dalzell of ‘Common Weal’ to come and speak to us, so watch out for the adverts.”

embark on a quest to “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” with three new friends who are “Off to see the Wizard”; then once “Over the Rainbow” gain a brain, a heart and courage to return home.

All ages are welcome and rehearsals are, for seniors, Monday 4.30-9pm and juniors Mondays 6-7pm. Contact Sheena by email: sheena.dowse@sky.com.