At Random with Martin Laing - 2.1.25

One thing that stands out hugely for me – and I may have mentioned it a few times in the past – is the totally heroic work of our emergency services, including lifeboat crews, mountain rescue teams and others in addition to the usual police, fire and ambulance staff. Apologies if I miss anyone out.

Their commitment to the wellbeing of others is astonishing and they frequently and habitually put their own lives on the line to protect and save complete strangers. Amazing; and thank you.

As we prepare to embrace 2025, the world seems on the brink again – it often does – with war in the Middle East and its tensions possibly heightened by the uncertainty of a new regime in Syria, and continuing war in Ukraine. Donald Trump returns to the White House and significant changes have happened elsewhere and are imminent in other countries too.

The newish UK Labour government faces countless challenges, many of them daunting, so we must all hope Sir Keir Starmer’s administration is up to the task. Similar sentiments apply here in Scotland. 

For me personally, health continues to be an issue but there are many people much worse off, so no complaints here. 

I’m regularly heard to respond to questions about how I’m doing over the past 12 months that I’m still upright, breathing and enjoying life. The highlight of the year for me was undoubtedly the birth of my first grandchild, Ciara. We as a family are blessed.

Despite the caveats voiced here, I remain fantastically optimistic for the year ahead and look forward to it with excitement and anticipation.

I hope that positivity continues and applies equally to all of you. 

We cannot see the future but I look forward to 2025 and wish you all a very happy new year.