Merkinch Traders’ secretary Jim Smith is pictured outside his shoe repair premises in Lochalsh Road

AS we can now see, Grant Street and Lochalsh Road look much more cheerful with the arrival of the hanging flower baskets.

Jim Smith, secretary of Merkinch Traders, told News & Views, “The idea came from Councillor Peter Corbett and he approached me about raising funds among the shopkeepers. This was successful to the tune of £750 which was matched by Councillor Corbett from his discretionary budget. And for good measure Merkinch Community Council contributed a further £500, making a grand total of £2000.”

Thanks go to the following businesses, members of Merkinch Traders, for their contributions: Merkinch Enterprise, European Chinese Takeaway, Pronto Pizza, Sammy Lee, Royal Indian Takeaway, Macintosh Motor Cycles, Charlie’s Chippy, Williams’ Hairdressers, mp33, Macdonalds Newsagent, Ann’s Barber Shop, Harry Gow’s Bakers, Forbes Pharmacy, Nicol’s Corner Shop, Ladbroke’s Bookies, Merkinch Post Office, Nisa Supermarket, and Clach Shoe Repairs.