Football clubs are still a force for good

As somebody who loves sport, I can completely understand the euphoria felt by fans after Rangers were crowned Scottish Premiership champions – especially after an almost decade-long wait. But I also sympathise with the justifiable anger felt by the people of Glasgow as they watched crowds of supporters flood to Ibrox stadium and then George Square in the heart of the city.

We’ve all been locked down and living with restrictions for the past 12 months, so to see a small minority of fans completely disregarding personal responsibility by gathering en masse was, to say the least, both shocking and disappointing.

It is the fans who flouted lockdown that must be held responsible, but I do think the club should also have better predicted that there would be a massive outpouring of excitement and, therefore, every possibility of a breach of lockdown rules. With that anticipated, a stronger “stay home” message to fans from the captain and the players might have reduced the numbers.

However, it’s important to note the fantastic work football clubs do in their local communities, and keep this in mind so the entire sport isn’t tarred with the same brush. From mental health support to food banks, clubs are an integral part of society, and such a powerful force for good within Scotland.

There has been a small number of people taking this breach of the rules as an opportunity to demonise and criticise football in general and, quite frankly, they are clearly missing the point.

A bluebell-carpeted walk along the Solway Firth in Dumfries and Galloway has topped the list of the best springwalksintheUK.

The “enchanting” walk was the only one north of the border to make the list of a magnificent seven compiled by leading travel guide Wanderlust.

“In spring, the woodlands are carpeted with bluebells and wood anemones,” said the guide.