30  We have travelled a long way since March last year, and have not yet reached the Promised Land of a world safe from Covid infection. There have been low points on the journey: the frustrations of lockdown, people who have caught Covid or Long Covid, people who have died, people who have lost their

29  There are reports that education officials in England, Scotland and Wales are reviewing for the new school year the need for all children in a class/ year group to isolate if one of them tests positive for Covid. Reviewing is not the same as deciding, but if it is feasible to make the change

  The change in English Secretary of State for Health and Social Care over the weekend attracted wall-to-wall headline coverage in the media. When commenting on the story it must be remembered that behind it lies private pain for the families affected, and that must be acknowledged and respected. The story does however underline the

26   Today is Armed Forces Day, when the country is encouraged to think about and show its appreciation for, our Armed Forces. Usually there will be events around the country to mark it, and Dumbarton hosts it for West Dunbartonshire Council from time to time. No events this year because of the virus, but

25   The media love to make a fuss about foreign holidays (maybe because the editors or commentators want to go abroad for their summer break?) There are concerns about the impact of flows of people on infection rates, and introducing new variants; but there are also many people in Britain whose livelihoods depend upon

24   Local schools are due to close today for the summer holidays. It has been a tough year in many ways for staff and pupils. Well done for all you’ve been doing. The local community really appreciate it. We hope you feel the benefit of the summer break, and we express our good wishes