Editorial

THIS LAST MONTH has been a little more unusual than most. First, there has been an election campaign. Politicians have found innovative ways to get their message across with virtual hustings and Town Hall meetings on Zoom.

Second, we are finding a way, a cautious one, out of lockdown. The coronavirus restrictions have been eased quite a lot, and now we may travel anywhere in Scotland, and even go to England for non-essential purposes.

It is accepted that the vaccines have made all the difference to our lives, and the fact that over 60% of the adult population in Scotland have received their first dose, is one of the most significant steps yet.

The number of cases, deaths from Covid-19 and patients in hospital and ICU have tumbled downwards.

Now that we have a bit more freedom, some semblance of the Edinburgh International Festival will return. We have illustrations of what that will look like on page 20. The performances will be outdoors, but will be live.