Record View has condemned a shocking litany of disorder, abuse and violence at youth football games in the central region over the last week, urging the tiny minority who cause chaos at kids' matches to wise up.
Some incidents involve violence between club officials where players are just five or six years old. There have even been reported hate incidents involving adults targeting children.
Passion must not spill over into hate
To the vast majority of coaches and parents such behaviour is unthinkable. But clearly some so-called grown-ups can't control themselves as soon as a ball is kicked.
Record View commends the youth football officials who have called out this behaviour on the first week of the season. It hopes the football authorities at the highest level will see to it that those who shame the game are kept well away from kids.
Nightlife industry still struggling
Scotland's nightlife was dealt a terrible blow - like the rest of society - by the effects of the covid lockdown. But while other sectors of the economy are recovering from the shock, pubs, cafes and restaurants are still struggling.
Michael Bergson, owner of the popular Bucks Bar venues, speaks out in the Daily Record today to plead for more support. It is vital that MSPs and councillors read his words and treat them with the urgency they deserve.
Michael has watched in disbelief as dozens of pubs near his venues have been forced to close. The reasons for this decline include restrictions on parking and car use in city centres, sky-high rates bills and changing consumer habits.
Action needed to protect vital industry
Fear of crime is also a factor - with some areas described as "no-go zones" after dark. Put simply, many of us are now avoiding our city centres at night.
It will take an almighty effort by business owners and local and national government to reverse the decline. But action is needed urgently to make sure that this vital industry - and the thousands of jobs it provides - are protected.
