Toms Scotland

Tom Egbers drives across the border between England and Scotland in his classic car and the further he drives into the country, the louder the call for Scottish independence seems to sound. Do the Scots really want to part with the English or is it just irritation between lovers? At the Highland Games in Oban, the locals think so.

Some call Scotland The sick man of Europe and the Scots have had tough years. But on his journey through the country Tom also notices that the Scots take it for granted that they take care of each other and that the sense of community is high.

There is nothing sweeter for the Scots than a victory over the English. And as Scottish independence seems closer and closer, even sworn football enemies are coming together to give the English a hard time. Tom drives along the golf courses, which in Scotland not only belong to the elite, but also to the common people.

The Loch Ness Monster has been missing for a long time, but tourists still flock to catch a glimpse of it. Tom Egbers also enjoys the beautiful nature in the Highlands and searches for the true Scottish identity soaked in whisky, kilt and bagpipes.

While Greta Thunberg, Joe Biden and all kinds of world leaders and activists settle in Glasgow for the climate summit, Tom Egbers travels to the quiet Orkney Islands. What does the energy transition mean for the Scots themselves? Will they close the oil tap and maybe switch to green energy, of which they have so much to offer? The looming consequences of climate change are a reality for the islanders and makes them inventive. Does the future start here?

The Scottish youth are also divided on whether or not Scotland should become independent. But whatever their opinion, one thing becomes clear to Tom Egbers: they like to take action themselves to improve their destiny and shape the future. Whether that's at the posh university of St. Andrews, the crofts in the Highlands or the poorer areas of Glasgow or Edinburgh, a Scotsman never gives up.