Letters: Two poems to mark VE Day

David Starsmeare shares two of his poems to mark VE day. The poems are from a set which take us from the early days of war, his times as an evacuee in the West Country, and then back to London.     Celebrations VE DAY, May 1945 Wounded in France long years before Our father…

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From Scrums to squats: How Peter Eccles Found New Purpose on the Farm

Peter Eccles saw himself as a dedicated and conscientious farm manager and hardworking rugby teammate. But when both came to an end, he found himself having something of an identity crisis.  Now, after opening his own on-farm fitness business and getting involved in supporting the wellbeing organisation Farmstrong Scotland, he opens up about finding his…

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7 Hidden Scottish Villages You Need to Visit

Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and charming villages draw visitors from around the world, but some of its most beautiful spots remain blissfully off the beaten path. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, these seven hidden villages should be on your list.   1. Pennan, Aberdeenshire Where: North-east coast, about an hour from Aberdeen. Tucked between…

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