Island intrusion

AN abiding problem, in my book, with small islands and their dwindling populations (Letters, 26 March) is the almost obsessive “community spirit” insistence. When people opt to live on small islands they are obviously opting for relative isolation – something islands genuinely offer, one would reckon.

To find that others are hemming them in on a small island with this “community all together” insistence is incompatible with small island ethos.

I picked up a Robinson Crusoe video the other day and intend re-enjoying it. I don’t expect to experience Mr Crusoe being subjected to a bunch of busybody island community organisers trying to meddle in his hut construction, his goat-hunting and his looking-out-to-sea routines.

It can deter would-be small island dwellers, and is probably what drives some away.

Ian Johnstone

Forman Drive

Peterhead