There is a lot to look forward to in Oban

The start of a new year for many of us is a time to reflect and reboot, and also a time to look forward.

But as we peer into the fog that is Brexit, not knowing what sort of deal will be brokered and how we will fare in Scotland, it is tempting to think there is nothing but doom and gloom. But actually, here in Argyll, there is a lot to celebrate.

The Queen’s New Year’s Honours List has seen no less than nine people honoured for services to HM Coastguard, local government, residential childcare and social enterprise, arts and the natural environment, and sport and young people. And while we are delighted to add our congratulations to all recipients, we also know that for everyone recognised here, there are many more who devote their working life and leisure time to helping others.

Hope Kitchen, again, ensured that those in need were catered for at Christmas, with chef Gary Goldie dishing up a six-course festive lunch to more than 40 people on Christmas Day. On the lead up to Christmas and in the weeks and months ahead, this Oban team will continue to bring hope and love to those in need.

And we were delighted to hear that the team at Oban Phoenix Cinema got off to a cracking start this year with the news that it received £22,000 from the Crerar Trust and £6,000 from the Oban Common Good Fund. This social enterprise is a huge bonus for the town and the cash will go a long way to help the team realise its plans to improve the cinema going forward.