Spring evening

I am looking out at showerclouds, moving east rather quickly on a blustery westerly wind. They are dumping heavy but brief rainfall on the islands. Typical for the Hebrides in spring.

I am sad to report that a man in his twenties, missing in the Central Highlands since Sunday, has been found dead near Ben Alder. He got separated from his walking partner near the mountain and was reported missing later on Sunday. Police, mountain rescue and a helicopter carried out a search, and located a man's body at the foot of Ben Alder.

Locally, the war of words between the Sabbatarians and the ferry company continues. The row is centered on which piece of legal advice was issued by who and to who. Why equality legislation is being focused on is unclear to me. There is a host of reasons for starting a ferry service asap.

Tuesday 26 May

Quite a nice day out here, with sunshine and fluffy clouds. Although 12C isn't terribly warm, I think I prefer that to the severe thunderstorms that battered Holland overnight. They went up to 27C yesterday. The ferry appears to be sailing on time today, after yesterday's disruption. Away from Stornoway, the ferry from Harris to Uist was disrupted due to low tides and the Barra to Eriskay ferry was full up. It is very busy with visitors at the moment. Many people opt to holiday at home (in the UK), due to the economic recession and the unfavourable £ to € exchange rate. A year ago, 1 pound sterling was worth €1.25, today it is more like €1.10.