‘What the club needs is love and attention’

Firstly, the huge outpouring of goodwill over the last few days proves that there are many, many people who will not allow the Jam Tarts to die without one hell of a fight. Passion for the club runs deep and the owners can tap into that in their efforts to keep the club afloat.

Plus, someone is interested in buying the club, despite all the obvious pitfalls.

Alex Mackie is a city businessman who is known for his passionate support of Hearts and his business acumen. So far, so good.

Yet there is a lot that we do not yet know about Mr Mackie and his consortium. First and foremost, do they have the financial muscle to meet Vladimir Romanov’s demands for offloading Hearts? And what exactly are their plans for stabilising the club if they do manage to take control? What part precisely will the fans play in the new set up, other than continuing to hand over their hard-earned cash?

One thing that seems clear is that the Romanov era is coming towards an end. It looks and feels as though he has had enough of owning Hearts and all that goes with it.

What the club needs right now is love and attention. A new owner who is closer to the fans – and closer to the club – would be a great start.

The supporters will be only too aware of the pitfalls that can come with so-called “white knight” investors, but Mr Mackie arrives at the table with a lot of credit on his side.

Everyone is waiting anxiously, desperate for him to convince us all that his plan is the real deal.

Happy new cheer

AS headline Scottish acts go, they   don’t come much bigger.

Simple Minds are to top the bill at this year’s Hogmanay in what is a fantastic coup for the event as it celebrates 20 years.

They will be performing a greatest hits set in West Princes Street Gardens to see in 2013 in what is sure to be a memorable night for everyone who gets their hands on a gold-dust ticket.

And for those who don’t remember the 1980s, they will be joined by current Scottish talent in the shape of Dundee rockers The View and  Edinburgh’s own Bwani Junction.

It is another impressive line-up as the Capital once again prepares for a New Year spectacular. Weather permitting, the city’s celebrations will once again showcase the best of the city to the world.

Roll on the bells.