WATCH: 'Stick together' message from Torridon band member Kenny Smith to pupils at Fortrose Academy to mark World Mental Health Day
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THE singer of a well-known Ross-shire band has sent a heartfelt message to pupils, parents and staff at a Black Isle secondary to coincide with World Mental Health Day.
Kenny Smith of Torridon appealed for everyone to tackle the coronavirus pandemic "as a team" and offered a thought for artists who have been robbed of their only source of income during the crisis.
In an upbeat message acknowledging the tough times, he said: "We need to fight it as a team. We're in it together. We're in everything together. So much more so now with the hardships of Covid-19."
He added: "For the band, it's very tough. Basically a whole year without music, without getting together when we're out playing live, which is what we love to do best."
He said they are in a more fortunate position than some in that they don't have to rely solely on the income of the band.
"There are others, some of our pals, who are not so fortunate so we think of them at this time. It's such a cruel world we live in with such a harsh pandemic. However we are also fortunate that we have each other. We have our friends and our family and that's the key – the sticking together.
"I would encourage you, once again, to look after yourselves, look out for each other, be kind and most important, keep your lighthouse shining."
The school said: "We are grateful to Kenny and his fellow band members for their continued support of Fortrose Academy in our attempt to keep raising awareness of mental health issues, and the support that can be offered through school and the wider community. The Black Isle really does care."
