How was your 2022, Scotsman readers? Wonderful, good, bad… Horrendous? Regardless of where you sit emotionally on the topic, what’s for sure is that this year has been a chaotic one indeed.
From the death of Queen Elizabeth II, to navigating 3 prime ministers in one year on top of reports of energy crises and looming threats of war just as normality appeared to tiptoe back in following Covid-19, even the toughest amongst us can be affected by it all.
But what’s easily forgotten is that life goes on and life finds a way (no film reference intended) and we mustn’t lose sight of that amid any troubled times. That’s why we’ve assembled these 22 news stories from Scotland in 2022 that tell the tales of kindness, triumph, brevity and hope.
We hope you enjoy them as we approach Hogmanay and boldly enter 2023.
9. Volunteers give seniors 'Couch Bike' rides to improve well-being
Cities across the world (including Scotland) saw volunteers wheel the elderly and disabled out on special ‘couch bike’ tricycles in order to enjoy the outdoors. The group is called ‘Cycling Without Age’ and following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions they once again had the opportunity to enhance the well-being and happiness of local seniors. Photo: Submitted
10. Scottish Gaelic on Duolingo reaches 1.5M learners on St Andrew's Day
Scottish Gaelic, the endangered native language of Scotland, hit 1.5 million learners on the language-learning application Duolingo in November. This fell on St Andrew's Day which is an important Scottish celebration dedicated to the country's patron saint. Photo: Submitted
11. World's first 'Boat Lift' sees Scottish canals turned into 'green veins of joy'
In a move designed to re-purpose canals all over Europe, and following over a century of ‘disuse’, Scotland’s coal barge canals have been converted into environmentally friendly ‘green veins of joy’ which are better-purposed to host wildlife. This was achieved by way of the Falkirk Wheel which is the world’s first "boat elevator" as it's described by some. Photo: L-Hamilton via Canva Pro
12. Police dog that saved 38 lives over 8-year career now enjoys retired life
A police dog named Luna that saved 38 lives over her 8-year career was honoured at the Thin Blue Paw Awards this year. The now 10-year-old German Shepherd was partnered with police officer Linda McBride back in December 2012 and the duo have always taken care of each other. Following her retirement, Luna has since enjoyed her first ever vacation as she enjoyed playtime at the beach while swimming in the sea. Photo: Submitted via Fife Today