Duncan and Lisa's Letter to Coll.

When my wife and I were informed we were to spend 14 months on the Isle of Coll, we didn't really know what to expect but coming from a rural background, we knew it wouldn't be too much of a culture shock.

I should add though that life on Coll is slightly different from our last home in Ibrox Glasgow.

On our first trip round the island we were disappointed not to see any of the lovely beaches we had been told about but we soon learned where to find them. Our favourite beaches are Toraston and Ballyhough. Toraston. because it's easy to get to and there's always a chance of seeing some inquisitive seals. My wife, Lisa, likes Ballyhough because of the spectacular surf and she tells me it reminds her of "Home and Away".

Our son Paul is now 18 months old but when we arrived 8 months ago, he had never seen sand before. He soon realised it was not for eating but he seemed to like the idea that he could not hurt himself when he fell.

I have learnt some new skills during my stay here. I took up windsurfing. Unfortunately the weather so far has stopped me getting out as often as I would have liked but first chance, I will be out in Arinagour Bay, entertaining myself and giving passers-by a good laugh. I have also broadened my knowledge of photography and with all my photos I have of Coll, we shall never forget our visit here.

I should take this chance to apologise for all the near accidents our cats, "Benson" and "Hedges" have caused in the village due to their lack of traffic sense. I hope they learn before returning to Glasgow; I don't think the traffic there will come to a standstill.

One thing we shall miss about Coll is the great medical service. Dr. de Mornay and Esther do a great job and my wife would like to thank them for her ante-natal care.

Talking of which, my wife has had to control her pregnancy cravings this time round as neither Barbara nor Janet will sell her carrot cake at 2.0 o'clock in the morning!

Although as I have said we didn't feel much of a culture shock when we moved here, we have mixed feelings about returning to Glasgow and we are planning to move back to Galloway for the country life again.

Finally, thanks to everyone for their hospitality and natural friendliness and I hope to see everyone again soon when we return to Coll for our Summer holidays.

Duncan McCormick: Resident Engineer.