Burning shame

If ever there was an example of the collapse of Scottish society it has to be the recent destruction of Grandholm Bowling Club in Aberdeen.

Built in 1921 by the workers in the long-gone paper mill, abandoned by its members last year after continual vandalism, it was burned to the ground on Monday.

I spent many evenings in Linlithgow Bowling Club as a boy in the 1960s, watching and talking to my dad, uncles and their pals play a game built on sportsmanship, teamwork, skill and modesty.

They were fine men, mostly tradesmen and ex-servicemen. One look from them would put thoughts of mischief out of your mind though. They couldn’t afford to play golf.

Those who hounded Grandholm out of existence probhysterical) ably have no such family or social foundation.

The police are powerless, lacking the time and legal tools they once had. When they investigate they are faced with a wall of silence built on insolence, fear of the culprits, “not my business” and hatred.

Until some politician or party admits to this fundamental issue – breakdown in family life and the hard solutions required – no amount of Brexits, baby boxes, independence, Commons walk-outs, or attainment funds will turn Scotland or the United Kingdom round. ALLAN SUTHERLAND Willow Row, Stonehaven