Kennedy tragedy marked end of an era

SOMETIMES a social media hounding ends in more than tears. This week, a film about former Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy aired on BBC Alba. Charting his political awakening as a youth, his sharp and dizzying ascent as a young man into party politics, and the special place he seemed to hold as a figure commanding respect from all sides, the film acts not simply as a document of Kennedy’s life and career, but as an obituary to an era of politics which is long gone.

Despite his distinguished career, it is the tragic circumstances of Kennedy’s death, succumbing to alcoholism alone in his home as he was hounded on social media, which sadly overshadow his legacy.

His death marked a paradigm shift in the tone and substance of Scottish political discourse. Those who took part in the smear campaign have yet to express regret. In his concession speech to Ian

Blackford at the 2015 general election, Kennedy showed more dignity in defeat than his detractors ever have in victory. As a youth, he made student politics feel serious.

Today, the grown men who kicked him when he was down render serious politics juvenile.

POLICE are probing an attempted dognapping in Glasgow.

A girl walking a labrador was targeted by a group of men at Snuff Mill Bridge in Cathcart, according to a post on social media.

It was reported that four men in their 20s tried to steal the pooch but the girl managed to run home.

The incident is said to have happened at around 2.50pm on Wednesday.

Police said: “Both dog and owner were unharmed.”