I MAY be tempting fate but there is a real feeling that we have at last put the damp, dreary and dreich days of winter behind us.

I don’t know about you but there is a real holiday ‘buzz’ about Inverclyde and the past few days we have even seen some sunshine and temperatures creep into double figures!

The schools are off, we are all looking forward to a long weekend and of course the kids are thinking about one thing – Easter eggs!

The holidays can often be a mixed blessing for families. A chance to spend some quality time with each other but often a bit of a struggle to keep the young ones entertained.

That is why I am so pleased that we have such a varied and exciting programme of events and activities across Inverclyde for them to get involved with, make new friends and above all have fun.

Inverclyde Leisure is playing its part and the libraries have been organising a range of events including craft afternoons for the more artistically minded.

I was asked along to Morton’s community Easter school at Inverclyde Academy to watch the girls and boys taking part, pictured. It was great to see so many had signed up, turning their backs on their games consoles to take part in physical exercise and have fun.

It is a great way to reinforce the ‘fit for life through sport’ message and I would like to thank all of the coaches for their hard work. I should also say with the news of Morton’s relegation I for one hope they can bounce back next season!

Speaking of keeping fit I like to exercise as often as I can — although I must confess I am a bit of a fair-weather person.

So it was a delight to get on my bicycle for just the second time this spring to enjoy the fresh air and the spectacular surroundings we are so fortunate to enjoy in Inverclyde.

Starting at my home at the Well Park I cycled down the Esplanade, around Battery Park, on to Lunderston Bay along the Holmston passing through Spango Valley, then back past Inverclyde Academy, Rankin Park and home via the Cowdenknowes dams. Quite a workout and all in glorious sunshine.

I for one think if nothing else we are blessed with so much natural beauty — I cannot wait for the next time.