On Friday 27th January, I headed to Oban to carry out a constituency advice surgery at the Rockfield Centre and also visit some of the excellent organisations that are based in and around the area.

The first stop was the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) just outside Oban. SAMS is a world leading research centre based in the constituency that studies our seas and oceans and undertakes research on how we can better protect our biosphere. SAMS works not only to educate society on the marine system, but also informs policymakers and businesses on the importance and benefits of improving practices relating to the sea.

I initially met with Professor Alex Miller, Deputy director of SAMS, who showed me some of the amazing work that the organisation have been doing recently. I was then introduced to Sessi (pictured above) who showed me some of their own research. SAMS not only provide excellent insight into marine science, they are also excellent at working with local schools and promoting the benefit of undertaking undergraduate studies in things like marine science.

I then visited Dunollie Castle which is located just a short walk from the centre of Oban.

I was shown around the Castle and Museum by General Manager, Emma Sutcliffe and Heritage Engagement Officer, Jamie MacGregor. Dunollie has been home to Clan MacDougall for over 900 years and is just one of many thoroughly interesting heritage sites in and around the coastline of Argyll.

Dunollie Castle reopens for the season at the beginning of April and I’d encourage anybody that has not yet done so to make a day of visiting this very interesting place. More information is available here.