There may not be a Grinch in sight but someone, somewhere is out to steal Christmas from Arran.
The storms and high winds have wreaked havoc on plans for family Christmas gatherings on both sides of the water.
Those who could left days early to be sure they were with loved ones on the mainland or with those returning to Arran, but there are sure to be many more who will now spend Christmas apart.
Travel problems around Christmas are nothing new, and occur on an almost annual basis, but this year just has the feeling of being much worse and, for once, no-one can really blame CalMac, after all it’s Christmas.
That is why events such as the carol service this week are so important. It was a joy to see the community come together in a celebration of Christmas and the fact that around 180 people turned out on a wet, windy night shows just how much it was appreciated by many.
That community spirit was seen around the island at the splendid sell-out pantomime and all the school nativity plays and shows held in recent days.
We hope that despite the weather woes all our readers have a wonderful Christmas and we look forward to some welcome relief from the winds come Boxing Day.