Gathering was an event to remember – and provided much food for thought

Clearly the title "Sick Man of Europe" will live on. I was ashamed of my country to find only burgers and chips on sale at the catering outlets.

Then bottles of water sold out by 1:30pm on Saturday, leaving the choice of alcohol, fizzy drinks or designer fruit juices at 2 for a glass.

A few Scottish food producers sold items at the Product Market; but they were placed far away from the main action and there was no information in the programme about food options.

Along with others, hoping for better luck, we queued at the Melrose's Tea tent: but several of us left in disgust when we saw the menu was 14.95 a head for tea, sandwiches and cakes.

What a missed opportunity to showcase some of Scotland's great food. Our farm-shop cafs would have done a better job. Next time, I'll be sure to take a picnic.

FIONA GARWOOD

33 Ormidale Terrace

Edinburgh

I am an expat Scot who has been in various countries in the world. On New Year's Day 2007, I was alone and went for lunch and a dram in Ft Lauderdale, Florida. The place was quiet and I chatted with the young barman who liked golf and loved Scotland, where he had not yet visited. Eventually, I asked what was it about Scotland he liked so much. The answer I received, I will never forget and had never considered myself. He said: "Scotland is a country you never hear anything bad about."

I think he was correct, and we should remember that and keep it that way.

JAMES S GALLOWAY

Lonehill

Johannesburg

South Africa

The Gathering was a wonderful event which has done Scottish tourism a power of good. Talking to fellow clan members from abroad they were very impressed by the whole event, and I was very proud to march beside them up to the castle on Saturday. The reception we got from the crowd lining the route was fantastic. People waved and cheered us. We should be proud of who we are, our heritage and our history.

ARCHIE YATES

Sauchie

Alloa

One needs to be careful about "celebrating" the clan system, because it's doubtful if this quasi-feudal relic has relevance to modern Scotland. Current clan "chiefs" are doubtless a harmless bunch, but some of their predecessors helped to bankrupt the country and promoted the Clearances – hardly a cause for celebration.

ROD WALLACE

Kincardine