Leader comment: The wonderful tales Scotland must tell

Thomas Telford's Crinan Canal, described as Britain's most beautiful shortcut, was built in 1801. (Picture: Allan Milligan)

Forget Game of Thrones, Britannia or even Outlander, the relatively blank canvas of an age almost lost in the mists of time combined with a touch of historical authenticity and one of the most scenic locations in the world must surely be a filmmaker’s dream.

Northern Ireland, where much of Game of Thrones is shot, and Scotland have learned the astonishing impact a hit series or film can have on tourism. So an epic medieval romp about the arrival of the Scots in modern-day Argyll and their relations with the enigmatic Picts could help our economy – as well as providing a bit of decent telly.

That may never happen, but what we are getting, and it’s most welcome, is a new £1.5 million visitor centre at Ardrishaig about the history of the area. In addition to medieval Dalriada, this includes the creation of “Britain’s most beautiful shortcut” – otherwise known as the Crinan Canal – just over 200 years ago.

Scotland has some wonderful stories to tell and we should always be looking for new ways to tell them.