An Comunn Collach - the Coll Association - is alive and well and continues as a focal point for COLLACHS on the mainland, particularly Glasgow. The traditional social scene of the Gaels in Glasgow is under increasing pressure from all kinds of alternative activities. Television changes social patterns and the pressures of modern urban living continue to erode the important role of the Highland Territorial Association. From Lewis to Skye, from Uist to Islay each island's association finds it harder to fill a hall for a social gathering... But not so the Coll Association.

It seems small is beautiful and although numerically small in comparison with larger islands, our membership continues to fully support the Association's social calendar and, more importantly, its aims. Much of the credit for this belongs to the hard work of the Committee under the guidance of our President, Neil MacFadyen. Highlight of our social calendar this year was the Annual Dinner, with guest of honour Robert Sturgeon, proprietor of Tigh na Mara Guest House, accompanied by his wife, Ruth. The "full house" gathering was well entertained by Robert's anecdotal speech which ranged from schooldays in Coll to Africa and other exotic lands and his eventual return to his native island.

Ceilidh nights, a Beetle Drive, Cabaret Dance and -an innovation this year - a Fashion Show and Race Night, were syllabus activities that enabled members to keep up their contacts and interests. "The Coll" reputation for friendly informality has firmly established the Association as an integral part of the highland scene in Glasgow and attracted the support and participation of many members of other Highland associations. Such inter-action augurs well for the future, not only of An Commun Collach, but, equally important, the aims and objectives we all subscribe to - or should - if Coll means anything to us.

Through the Association's work much has been achieved out much remains to be done. All our endeavours are directed to mutual support for Coll, its people and friends. This takes many forms - from straightforward financial support from our Benevolent Fund to companionship and moral support. However, the best way to discover what the Coll Association is all about is to come along to one of our functions. A warm welcome awaits and, let's face it, everyone's common denominator is always - Coll and the Collachs!