Things are on the up

THINGS are getting better and better for Forres and there is more than just better weather on the Horizon for the town.

This week's 'Benromach' picture of St Laurence Church was taken by Brian Casey.

The news this week that the pavement outside the Tolbooth is set to be re-surfaced to create a more attractive high street frontage, has been widely welcomed. The community council have commended the council road’s department for speaking to them about the work, and what it will entail, before it is carried out, with a long term plan to make sure that the whole of Forres High Street will be properly paved in future to make a more welcoming feature.

It might seem like a trivial act, but it represents a significant investment , but has also paved the way for better communication between Moray Council and the watchdog body.

Also making a welcome gesture are members of St Leonards Church who are holding midweek coffee mornings, to provide a venue for people to meet in fellowship with friends and neighbours.

Another group wants to provide opportunities for everyone in the community - but this time to try out new technology.

The T-Exchange was formed last year with a local membership wanting the wider community to get involved in the technology boom for their own benefits. They intend to share resources and network their ideas for new technology. It’s an exciting prospect and happening right on our doorstep.

Also happening on the doorstep, but less than welcome seem to be a stream of petty crimes, which we have previously reported on, but alongside the more serious recent spates of break-ins, have given cause for concern. However, local police officers have re-assured the public that they are working hard to combat the problems, with one person already arrested. It goes without saying that the police can’t be everywhere and any information, especially from local sources, that may help them will be welcomed.

What wasn’t welcomed at the weekend was the Forres Mechanics defeat by Wick, which was mirrored by the town’s junior team - Forres Thistle who were also thrashed in their match at the weekend. No doubt the boys in yellow won’t be crying into their boots, but wil have sufficiently licked their wounds to enable them to get back on the pitch and battle like we know only they Can Can this week.

Whether or not you are a footie fan, make a date in your diary for the Tolbooth Open Day which is taking place on Saturday. Volunteers are showcasing their plans for what their heritage project could look like, if the funding is made available. Tours of the facility will be on offer and it is more than worth a trip to see this remarkable building if you haven’t before. They want to make it a facility for the whole community, so why not go along and see what is on offer.