AGAIN and again, I have been impressed by the resilience of our community groups throughout the months we have been collectively tackling Covid-19.

Despite the difficulties, they still reach out and provide a service to those in need. I shall not pick out any specific group, since that would be unfair to the many groups who are equally deserving of mention.

I just wish to take a moment for us to reflect on the fact that our community spirit remains strong and supported in these difficult times. Well done, East Lothian.

Unfortunately, our Remembrance Day ceremonies could not take place in the form we all would wish for.

In Musselburgh, the lack of crowds and formalities, and the action of simply laying a wreath and taking a few moments of contemplation, was powerful and memorable.

I went around other memorials in the constituency and, similarly, was able to focus on the actual reason for being there, which had nothing to do with flags and a piper but everything to do with remembering those who made sacrifices so that we could enjoy democracy and free speech.

Back on the world stage, the welcome election of Joe Biden as President-Elect of the United States has left the UK isolated and rather friendless.

The all-encompassing trade deal with the US is now less likely to happen and the ongoing disaster of the Brexit negotiations and withdrawal from the EU has left us isolated and exposed to a no-deal Brexit.

As I watch the performance down in London of our so-called Tory statesmen, I fear for our future under such incompetence and blatant self-interest.

Where it will end for the UK is up to the UK. Where it will end for Scotland is in our hands. We can choose to end this isolation and rejoin the world. I hope we do.

A final request – please support local shops and buy local.