Some may say that imitation is the best form of flattery. While others may say it’s laziness, or even downright plagiarism. We here at the News and Views, will, because we are kind hearted folk, opt for the first.

We all know that Merkinch is the hub of all that’s good and great - those of us that work, live and play here, experience it daily, so I guess that’s why our weekly and bi-weekly rags - oops sorry! Newspapers, find our stories so irresistible. Clach’s Cousins, Three Pillars of Merkinch, Well Ken’t Faces, Merkincher for the High Jump, are just a few of our recent stories that have leaked out of your free monthly community newsletter onto the pages of those bigger affluent publications - I guess they just can’t help themselves. Well, I suppose, we should take it as a compliment, however, that said, it would be nice to be credited as the source or inspiration, even just sometimes.

So next time you buy your weekly or bi-weekly newspaper, and come across a story that looks familiar - remember, you probably read it here first!!

PS. Just wondering if any of the local newspapers are looking for a Merkinch Correspondent, a Kate Adie - you know where to find me!

PPS. Thanks must go to Highland News who did mention that we were the motivation behind one of their recent front page stories - Merkinch Kids Speak Out.