Golden eagle found shot on grouse moor in Dumfries and Galloway

You can find details of this sickening story here on the SSPCA's site and here on the RSPB's site. When will action be taken? When?

Knee trials

Since returning from Braemar three weeks ago I've been nursing a knee injury, cause unknown. I assume something occurred on Tolmount, the last hill of the holiday, but am unaware of what that 'something' was because only on arrival home the following day did I suddenly find that my left knee wasn't working. Anyway, I rested and hobbled around for a week then successfully reversed the resulting improvement by making several ascents of a ladder to clear gutters. Another two weeks passed without venturing onto a hill but, with a trip north and westwards only days away, we decided that a trial walk in the Ochils was now essential.  A pleasant 14km outing on Saturday was followed by 19km on Sunday - both  beautiful autumn days.  There was slight discomfort on descents but, despite some stiffness and a little pain this morning, I think I can now vote the knee sufficiently well to carry me up some bigger hills.  Lynne might have to carry me down though.....

Even with turbines above us (out of shot, right) this was a peaceful spot for a long stop to soak up the sun.