NEXT YEAR'S PRICES NOW LIVE ONLINE

The VAT rise in January has caused us a few headaches trying to set prices for 2011 and there may have to be some minor adjustments in the New Year as it's quite a big increase for us to absorb. We're already unpaid tax collectors for the Government so if we don't pass this increase on it will badly affect us. In most cases we have decided NOT to pass on the increase so 2011 rates are effectively cheaper than 2010!

One other major change to announce! The Barn Bar is now accepting dogs with their owners - as long as it's not during lunch or dinner service. This will be greatly welcomed by many of our customers who like to pop in for a pint and don't like leaving their pet by itself. Not sure if we'll bring Alfie the Great Dane up for a drink as he takes up so much room we'd never manage to get him to lie under a table and keep out of the way.

OBAN GAMES IN THE SUNSHINE

Jim and I were honoured to be asked to take part in the Argyllshire Gathering parade through town to the games field for the Oban Games today. The sun shone and the pipes were in fine tune and it was a lovely day out. Mossfield (which just last week hosted the McAulay Cup Shinty Final) was bathed in sunshine and the crowds were out in force. We watched some of the Highland Games events and then had a lovely lunch in Eeusk. A welcome day away from the office!

West Highland Week

The fleet has finally set off to Mull and as my husband and kids are all involved I have the house to myself at last! We've had an extra family staying with us as their kids are also crewing and last night we had the crews of Prime Cut, Aunt Jessie and Misjif for a BBQ in the stables. No doubt, the partying will continue in Tobermory tonight - if you are planning a day trip to Mull over the next two days beware!