It has been a Christmas shopping season like no other...
Thousands of stores across the country will be able to reopen their doors today as 11 council areas in
Scotland are moved down from the top tier of lockdown restrictions.
After three long weeks with no business, many retailers will be hoping to make up for lost time with only a fortnight until Christmas Day.
It’s understandable shops will want to make the most of it given how many days have been lost to traders.
But it’s important that shop staff and customers stay safe by following social distancing rules and wearing face masks where required.
No one wants a repeat of the scenes witnessed in central London earlier this month when crowds swarmed outside department stores.
At the same time, it’s important we all treat retail workers with respect and patience.
Shopping under lockdown can be a frustrating experience for all of us but it’s not the people on the tills who make the rules.
If one store looks particularly busy, you can always try again later.
Shops are operating at reduced capacities for an important reason.
So, let’s support our local businesses where possible this Christmas.
And stick to social distancing rules at all times to ensure it’s as happy a new year as possible.
Sporting chance
The £55million aid package for spectator sport in Scotland is a shot in the arm for clubs up and down the country.
In some cases, the financial support could be the difference between survival and going under.
Clubs at every level have struggled without their fans – and not just because of the loss of gate receipts.
Supporters pay to watch the football but they spend money on food, programmes and merchandise when they go to a game.
Sports clubs are vital parts of our communities and deserve this support in their hour of need.
Musk spaced out
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk saw his SpaceX Starship prototype explode while attempting to land.
It is hoped the rocket will one day take people and cargo to the moon and beyond.
But after this disaster, that ambition – like the planets it hopes to reach – is a long way off.
Musk do better.
