Another birthday

Well, a bit belated perhaps, but no less enjoyable for that. And a very pleasant way to spend it - particularly on such a grey, drizzly day - a lazy family lunch in Troon. This is MacCallum's Oyster Bar, a one-time boat shed. Its walls are covered with pictures, plans and models of some of the boats that were built here in years gone by.

An austere red brick building outside at the end of an uninspiring road, it sits right at the harbour side. Inside, besides an appealing selection of mussels, langoustine, scallops and a variety of other fish, there are views of the fishing boats moored for the weekend and a seal bobbing in the water. We'll be back!