Our world has moved on apace over the last century and the pace of change that technology has delivered is incredible.

More recently, artificial intelligence, fibre optic lasers and digital technology has altered the way we live at a bewildering pace.

The world was struggling to come to terms with the new technologies and their downside in the form of climate change and pollution and the damage we are doing to our environment.

Despite our scientific know-how, the pursuit of economic growth created a climate where we were paying lip service to pollution and the environment from where we obtain all of our resources.

Suddenly, and unpredictably, Coronavirus nurtures a plague that has spread across the world in a matter of weeks. Hopefully, our global world will be jolted by the dreadful COVID 19 virus and we look more carefully at a world that recognises sustainable self-sufficiency is a way forward by maximising the benefits of solar energy, wind energy and energy from our oceans.

We can also accelerate the initiatives taking place to provide our food organically and fresh. A programme that uses our knowledge and technology to assist nature to propagate marine life and landbased life would make a significant contribution to the way we live and how we protect our natural environment.

By turning our attention back to the land and the sea we would improve our lifestyle, our understanding of nature and consequently our physical and mental health.

Whenever we plan for the future of Wansbeck the priority consideration should be; will this make us more self-reliant, happier and more healthy?

to be continued