Forres has much to be proud of

THE weekends events only served to reinforce the spirit of community and demonstrated everything that is special about this town - namely its people.

Win or lose, Forres was always going to support The Mechanics and the fact they came so close to nearly pulling off one of the biggest upsets in the Scottish Cup, is down to the skill and hard work of players and managers, but must also be attributed to their determination to do well for their town, which was doubtless pushed on by the tidal wave of support and good feeling that this match has generated.

Just about everyone was aware of the big game, and was willing their team on, with half the population coming into the ‘Gazette’ office to get their supporters tops and scarves. Despite the clear bias for the home side, the Ranger supporters received a warm welcome and Gers manager Ally McCoist has paid tribute to that community spirit which clearly shone through.

Police have also paid tribute to the good natured behaviour of fans at the game, and for that we should be proud. There was no trouble, just a couple of silly incidents which are hardly worth a mention.

Indeed, although the Cans were just narrowly beaten, this town is justifiability proud of its football team which has a long history. And make no mistake, if they continue to play like that, with drive and determination, we will all be celebrating wins again soon, as they make more historic moments to remember.

Whether you were born here, live here, were visiting specially for the match, have a connection with the town, or were just passing through on the day, you will remember the atmosphere for a long time.

A motion has also been raised in Parliament to celebrate the community spirit which shone through on the day.

Talking about making memories and kind gestures, local youngster Fraser Smith was hardly back from his once in a lifetime trip to Disneyland, when local Varis Motorcycle club were arranging a special fundraiser for him, putting about £3,000 into a pot which will help pay for the youngster to go to Lapland in the future.

Kind hearted gestures, this town is full of them. One lady popped into the ‘Gazette’ last week to thank the unknown youth who picked her up after she fell in the Sunken Garden at Grant Park. She was doing a good deed and showing some tourists the sights, when she came a cropper. The young man appeared out of nowhere and made sure she was OK and being cared for, before making his excuses and leaving.

That is so typical of the town and the people who live here. Often we only hear the negatives, especially when it comes to young people, but there are far more positives.

Forres Academy teacher, Liz Stewart took a group of students and former pupilss from the school to Malawi during the summer, where they worked at an orphanage and school, which she has formed links with.

as well as being involved in health, social and educational projects, the pupils painted on blackboards to provide maps and other teaching resources for the school and pupils to learn. Well done them.

A lot of people in Forres are working hard to do good things. There might be cutbacks and everything might not be wonderful, but there are a lot of positives too.