I know it's been a while since some of you subscribed and if at this point you actually remember me or have any recollection of even subscribing to this newsletter in the first place, then pat yourself on the back.

Why? Because you, my friend, have a fantastic memory.

See, the last time I actually sent one of these things out was ... well, it was over a year ago. There are very good reasons (excuses?) but I'll chuck in an apology and leave it at that.

For now MacDuff, read on .....................

The site was looking a bit jaded so it's had a makeover. http://www.ObanArgyll.com Why not have a look and use the contact page to let me know what you think. http://www.obanargyll.com/contact.html

New pages since the last newsletter include:

A genetic study - Who are you? A study by Oxford University into the genetic make up of people local to the area. Apparently there's a good deal of Irish and Norse blood in us all. Results of the study will be published when available. http://www.ObanArgyll.com/genetics.html

All you need to know about haggis - what can I say?http://www.obanargyll.com/haggis.html

Sea Life Centre page updated with a money saving tip - save £10 of the admission price http://www.obanargyll.com/sea-life-centre.html

and Blog Blether which you can also subscribe to using RSS, My Yahoo, MSN or Google
http://www.obanargyll.com/oban-blog.html
(Is there no end to the wonders of technology on this site?!)This page updates any time a new page is added or updated so you don't miss a thing.

Started the year with a bang - The first Oban Hogmanay street party was a roaring success and there are plans afoot to make it a yearly event. There were visitors from all corners of the globe and the event was a sell out. Watch this space for details of how to obtain tickets for next years event.(Hogmanay is an old Scots word for last day of the year - nearer the end of this year I'm planning a page on site about Scottish customs including New Year)

Easter, which was way too early, saw the town come to life again. It was good to see visitors and locals out enjoying the bright and sunny, if somewhat cold, weekend.

Rare Breeds Park Closed! A real disappointment as this was one of my favourite days out with the kids. They're getting past the stage of even wanting to be seen within a mile of unless it's to go the bank, so I can live with it but many people have emailed me asking if it's true. Unfortunately it is. The good news is that all the animals were re-homed in other similar parks round the country but it's a sad loss of an excellent attraction and fun day out. http://www.obanargyll.com/oban-rare-breeds.html

MacTavishes Kitchen was closed during the Winter season but has now re-opened under new local ownership who intend that as well as the traditional Scottish Show nights, to add a weekend night club. They've given it the unimaginative name of 'The Room Above' but it's entertainment value and not names that count. If you do visit please feel free to drop me a line or even write a short review. http://www.obanargyll.com/contact.html

Eating out? A few new places to try, Seafood Temple, Waterfront, Cuan Mhor to name a few. The Studio is under new management - we were there last week for my daughters birthday and I can recommend it to you.

There are also proposals at planning consultation stage for custom built night club in Stevenson Street which is a much needed facility for younger (than me!) residents and visitors alike.

I'd like to leave you with some words of wisdom but nothing springs to mind so until next time, take care.

John