To Mr Michael Forbes
When the going gets tough, the tough get going!

Donald Trumps arrogance and indifference to anyone but himself, $$$ and his insipid staff are a shining example of what greed and bad taste sadly is in our society.
Not everyone is for sale and sadly for Donald Trump human qualities such as humility, good grace, manners and good will to others cannot be bought with a credit card.
In St.Kilda, Melbourne by the bay we also have another example of greed with a proposal to build a large shoping complex with nightclubs and cinemas on the foreshore etc Blocking majestic views except for the favoured few!
We are using your example to inspire us to maintain our vigilence to ensure the local council look after the interests of the residents, ratepayers and future generations of those who wish to enjoy the beach area.
Good luck. You have our respect and admiration.
Terry Claven, St.Kilda, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Terry Claven , Melbourne, Australia

Why does Donald trump have such silly hair? Surely on his proposed wind swept golf development, his hair would look even sillier. Michael Forbes has the good sense to keep his hair short, because he knows exactly how windy it is up there. Instead of trying to bully him off his land, maybe Donald Trump should visit Michael and kindly ask him for some decent hair advice. It might even make a good movie and the locals would benefit from the subsequent employment created. Everyone would be a winner.

Harold Armfield, London , England

Good for Michael Forbes! We have a "Donald Trump" here in Utah. His name is Steele, and he wants to crete an "Aspen Utah" rezone everything, and run the locals (who have been here for 40 years) out. Our fight is the same, do the ultra wealthy have any integrity? The locals won't even be allowed into the town, they couldn't afford it!

Michael lortsher, Cottonwood Heights, USA Utah

Dont' give up Mr. Forbes! Let's not give up, all of us believing that money is not the only important thing in life. Tourism for rich people is not always the right solution, and as we have understood in the Italian Alps. Hold on, Mr. Forbes!

Chiara Santamaria, Trento Italy

Chiara Santamaria, Trento, Italy

Go ahead Mike Forbes. Don't let Scotland be sold out to rich people, like it's being done in the Swiss Alps. Normal people like you and me never could afford even spending one day in that resort. Aren't the USA big enough to "deface" wild countryside.

Mrs Walkert, Geneva, Switzerland

I entirely agree with Mr Overton, Aberdeen. It's all very well for people in the US, or elswhere across the globe, to support Mr Forbes, but you may well have a very different opinion if you actually lived here in Aberdeenshire. Our fishing industry is already in serious decline, and the oil and gas industry is sure to follow suit over the next 50 years. We need to look to another industry that will help generate revenue for this part of Scotland, and introducing a world class golf resort would be the perfect opportunity. Furthermore, the development may well enhance the beauty of the coastline; as a born-and-bred Aberdonian, I can vouch for the fact that the area is not really that spectacular.

Mrs Allan, Aberdeen,

I support Michael Forbes,I think he is a good man to stand up to D.Trump.
Trump will make it for the rich people only.
Enough of the rich pushing people around.
Fight on Mr.Forbes

Steve Lombardo, New Rochelle, U.S.A. / New York

Stay strong Mr Forbes - Scotland does not need 'help' from such as Trump. This land is not his, and all Trump wants from it is money - he is doing no one any favours other than himself. The Council needs to recognize Trump for what he is - a business man who cares nothing for Scotland or its environmental future - only his bank balance. I'm sure if he wants to do good there are plenty of folk in America who would love to take his money.

Patricia garrett, Innellan Dunoon, Scotland

Mr. forbes if trump and his posse has posed a threat to you and your family i suggest you take this to court with a fine lawyer to represent you , this is your land thats the bottom line you sell your land mr. trump like all others with hi status will kick you to the curb and you will be living in some housing complex, Do not allow this mammoth of business man . You are standing for what we all believe in. Hey forbes forgetta about him! keep the lord in your heart!

Ray.G, NY,NY, UNITED STATES

I'd like to add my support to Michael Forbes in his stand against Trump, who obviously doesn't realize that some things are beyond price.
Stand firm Mr. Forbes, and may you be allowed to live your life in peace, and in beautiful surroundings.

Oh, and shame on the seven councillors who gave approval to the plan. They evidently do not appreciate the country they live in.

Marilyn, Bury St Edmunds,

As an American, I am so happy to see Michael Forbes keeping his land. He has more foresight than most people. Developers have destroyed large parts of our country. It is too late to regret it now.

lila Legrande, Van Nuys, CA USA

Mr Forbes - YOU ARE MY HERO!

Philipa, Worcester, England

I have just seen this story on the news on BBC on 20 November. I fully support Mr Forbes and his family in not giving in to Mr Trump or anyone, who's obvious outcome is their own personal financial gain.
Myself and family are facing the same type of problem with a developer building next door to us. His focus is financial riches, same as Mr Trump. Our riches are nature on our doorstep, no light pollution, peace and quiet - Hang on Mr Forbes and family - you are fighting for many many people and future generations.
Thank you.

J Elder, Kingsbridge, Devon

If Mr Trump wants to change this country, maybe he should show he cares about it instead of thinking that he should own what he wants disregarding its history...

edward_amsden, Hawes , n Yorks

Stand firm Mr. Forbes,......... Scotland is not a playground for rich Yankees..... !!!

Thomas, Glasgow, Scotland

I'm with you Mr Forbes! Don't let Mr Trump destroy another piece of your wonderful country.
In USA there are many places where Mr Trump can build another useless golf course.

Antonio, Coquitlam, BC, Canada

Mr Forbes, I read about the situation on Italian newspaper. I wish to support you and your position.
No project will save the pureness of your land, except to keep it in hands who understand it and talk with the ground and the water.

Luca, Milano, Italy

For Mr. Trump it's all about "Money, Money, Money". In contrast, Mr. Forbes knows what is worth preserving for future generations. Make him the mayor of Balmedie. Bring in Prince Charles. He is for conservation of sites of remarkable natural beauty. Give Trump the boot! Let him spoil his own coastline!
As well...can't believe the audactiy of Trump's advisor saying that Forbes is the "bad neighbour here". Get a grip!

Margaret , Victoria, Canada

God bless the old breed of european peasants and fishermen!
There is at least some dignity left somewhere!

Roberto, Naples , Italy

I'm proud of this guy! The Spoiled American Child Donald will ruin the coastline with his spoiled rich people. Do not let this happen my fellow Scots!! And don't believe his lies!
signed
A Scottish-Canadian

Be Strong!!

K.Woodall, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Do Not Sell Out Scotland! Some things are Priceless!!

K.Woodall, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

"The Donald" cannot be allowed to continue on his
path of destruction. Let him make better use of his money to
build homes for the homeless, feed the starving
throngs, alleviate suffering worldwide - Lord knows,
we have plenty of golf courses for the idle, selfish,
playing-around, immature, useless sports jocks who do nothing to edify this world, really, if truth be known.
Can you tell I have no use for the game? What a
waste of time!
There is a horrendous need for charitable works waiting
for funds from super rich people who - like Trump -
only want their name magnified and glorified.
Wrong, Donald! Get out of Scotland, and leave the
man, his mother, and his family property alone.
I am in Michael Forbes' camp. I hope he holds out
until Trumpster backs off and hies out of there.

Sandra, Cornwall, Ontario, Canada

The Donald is an incredibly rude, arrogant, spoiled child in an adult body. I hope that it doesn't end up being "what the Donald wants the Donald gets". It's too bad that someone can't come in with a small development plan to encourage eco-tourists to visit. It would be a boon to the economy and protect your way of life and the surrounding natural beauty.

Leigh McCrea, Tampa, USA / Florida

I'm from close-by in Aberdeen and fully support Mr Forbes. There are very many locals who oppose the Trumpton development and we will fight greedyness and environmental destruction in true Scots style. Beauty and peace cannot be bought, it does not have a price. If Trump new anything about farms in Scotland, he'd know that the majority are rusty and in need of a little TLC, but that's what farms are like here and we're not complaining about rust! Farmers help feed the greedy humans but without farmers or their land we will all starve.

Do not ever give up your land...

Clarissa Martinez, Aberdeen, Scotland,

I hope mister Forbes will not sell his propertie in any case. Donald Trump may have a lot of mony, I don't think he's allowed to take away the charms of Scotland and the Scottish landscape.

Nils de Koning, Nunspeet, The Netherlands

Not everything in this world needs to be over-developed and "gilded gold" for it to have worth. Don't the very rich have enough playgrounds without spoiling this area of Scotland. I for one was embarrased by Donald Trump's arrogant attitude of entitlement and disparaging remarks about Mr. Forbes' property. I don't blame Mr. Forbes for wanting to keep his family farm and I hope his community supports his efforts. I doubt that the economic benefit to be derived from this development is going to be worth what will ultimately be lost. Hang in there Mr. Forbes, you have every right to keep what is yours.

S. Coleman, LANSING, Michigan/USA

I apologize that our arrogant Trump is causing trouble in the homeland. My Grandmother was born in Larkhall, Scotland but I have grown up in America. Please let people know what can be done to assist you in your fight.

Scott, Wilsonville, Oregon

Jobs? You mean a few low-pay seasonal catering jobs that will be done by people who Trump will import from Mexico, Vietnam and the Phillippines, because they're cheaper than you Scots. WAKE UP SCOTLAND! You can do better than this and keep this precious land that will be gone forever, if this billionaire who always has to get his way wins. It will be your loss. DON'T BE LOSERS.

Geoff, Leicester/Galloway, England

You have lots of support from Norway and Australia, Micheal. I am a golfer who stand by your side. Scotland has enough golfcourses allready - they are the best in the world.
Do lot let Trump get into Scotland. My roots are from Scotland and I like to remember Scotland as it is and has allways been. The nature is what attracts tourists to Scotland, not big hotels. Hotels we can get i the US.
Let us not let them conqueer Scotland. Let us fight back Trump as we fought back the english for many years ago.

Grant Blackburn, Oslo, Norway

Mr Trump is welcome in Balmedie and the sooner he gets permission to proceed with this very ambitious and progressive project the better! Most people in this area are looking forward to creation of the hotel, golf courses and the houses. The closure of Menie Salmon Fishing Station will also be welcomed by all right thinking people in this area and in the United States.

Overton, Aberdeen,

Bravo Mr. Forbes! D.Trump thirst for power does not speak for the majority of people that have to work for a living. Trump has more than enough money,but it's not money he's after,it's power,and I tip my hat to you for standing firm. What you have is more than he will ever have.

Rj Newell, Vancouver, Washington U.S.A

Stand firm, Mr. Forbes. We live on the East End of Long Island, NY, USA. Once a land of beautiful farms, plentiful fish and clean, clear water; it is being sold out, farm by farm to be replaced by strip malls, fast food stores, water parks and golf courses. Not to mention the good health of the people being replaced by an ever increasing cancer problem. You mentioned not catching many fish last year, I wonder how many fish will be left after the pesticide and fertilizer run-off from the new golf course finds it's way to the sea.Good luck to you.

nancy, Islip, NY

Keep fighting the obnoxious Trump. He is a spoiled boy who can't get what he wants. He doesn't need any more golf courses or hotels. He has more than enough and so have we.

Jack Smith, jackson, mississippi

Isn't it interesting that the Americans' comments celebrate Mr. Forbes for his refusal to be bought while the unsuspecting people of Scotland seem blind to the greed of Mr. Trump. I hope Mr. Forebes can save his fellow countryman. He's a hero - you just don't know it yet.

Jill Lackie, Clarkston, Michigan USA

It doesn't matter how many townspeople are for this and how many against. Plain fact is there is enough ravaging of our natural areas all in the name of "progress". Soon there won't be anything left in its natural state to enjoy. Trump, stay out of Scotland! Mr. Forbes - stay true to your heritage - remain stubborn!!! Its your right!

Lois Viglas, Lois Viglas, USA/Massachusetts

Hold firm, Mr. Forbes. You've got something many of us would love to have, a little piece of heaven. Mr. Trump has spoiled too many pieces of land.
By the way, you look marvelous in your kilt.

Patricia Bragg, Apopka, USA, Florida

How dare you "The Donald" messing w/ my heritage.. Shame on you. I hope Scotland kickes you right out of there...
Stay strong...

Meg Casey, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Keep at it, Mr. Forbes! Hold on and don't let go! - for anything!

Emily, Chicago, USA/IL

How wonderful Mr. Forbes can teach Donald Trump that not everyone can be bought and there are things more important than money - FAMILY HERITAGE. We are delightfully proud of Mr. Forbes and the pride he has in his land and legacy. Take it from Americans who have seen Trump in action - save yourself, your families, and future generations from the greed and destruction Trump will bring. You are already rich with something more valuable than money. We celebrate you, Mr Forbes!

Jill Lackie, Clarkston, Michigan USA

Trump, famous for being famous, is an embarrassment to this Yank, the quintessential "Ugly American." It's always good to see truth spoken to power.

On this side of the Atlantic, the government would condemn the property under eminent domain and graciously hand it to Trump for the "greater public good," though the "greater public" is defined solely by wealth, inherited or accumulated.

Three cheers for Mr. Forbes!

Keith, Kansas City, Mo, USA

Trump has an over-sized ego and very little concern for anything but money and being the center of attention. Good for Mr. Forbes that he is holding his own. Well done. Send him packing.

don, Montreal, Canada

It would be helpful if your reporter canvassed the views of the vast majority of people in the Balmedie / Aberdeen area who are actually strongly in favour of Mr Trump's plans.

Overton, Aberdeen,

It never ceases to amaze me that his kind have no concern whatsoever for species outside of the human race. This planet has not seen millions of years of evolution and biodiversity just so he can build golf courses on it.

And just to throw more light on Trump's environmentally sensitive projects, he has been trying to spearhead a development within the boundaries of a mangrove swamp in Cozumel. Mangroves are endangered and that land, purported to be public, has been kindly offered up for sale by the mayor of San Miguel, Cozumel.

Lisa Morton, San Jose, CA, USA

Mr Trump is offering a very special opportunity to the North East of Scotland and that area should grasp the offer with both hands. Many jobs will be created and with the new Aberdeen Peripheral Route just about to be started, good access to the new resort from all over the UK will soon be available.
With a new Golf facility at Menie Aberdeen Airport will surely be upgraded.
Menie was formerly a shooting estate and the new development can only benefit local wildlife.
The salmon station at Menie should be closed thus assisting the recovery of the Atlantic Salmon which has suffered severely from over fishing for the past 40 years or so.

Overton, Aberdeen,

I want to thank Mr Forbes. People should have to learn by him. I’m happy to hear that still exist people for which money isn’t the most important thing.

Giampiero, Genoa, Italy

Large development needs people to sell land to make this possible, but if you dont want to sell your land this is your choice and it should be respected.
This however is a bitter pill to swallow for mr Trump and I m sure that where ever he may go all land and houses will look in tatty and messy. Not everyone in the world has golden toilets and brashish demands of what the world should look like. Farmers especialy. Imagine a country scottish farm with plastic white pillars at the front door and fake marble embolished with golden bits. Make's me feel sick writing about it!

Putting pressure on someone who wants to stay where they are is dispicable. In Yorkshire the same happend to a farmer as they built the M52 and now he has a 6 lane motorway either side of his house; A plain example of the developers not giving a toss about the people who own the land and the attachment it has for them. Up the Forbes !!!

joe Crossley , Paris , France

Mr Forbes, I live in new york and am not a fan of the ostentatious and tacky trump. Hold on to your land and possibly build a small museum - "The museum of hair"; with a special section on 'combovers' you could charge the golfers a hair-raising entry fee!

Arun, New York City, NY

I spoke to mr forbes last month, and he told me that he had only caught one salmon and one sea trout in his nets this year and it would not be economic to continue next year.
this is sadly indicative of the decline in the fishing industry in the north east, I myself coming from Peterhead.
perhaps we should be glad to encourage new sources of revenue to the area, as we seem to have missed out on tourism in this area of Scotland up untiil now.

Dennis, Aberdeenshire, scotland

I spoke to mr forbes last month and he told me he had caught one salmon and one sea trout all season in his nets , and it was not worth while fishing again next season. Sadly this is indicative of the decline in Scottish fishing, I myself coming from Peterhead and knowing too well the problems that this brings.
we should embrace any new forms of investment into this area of Scotland, and encourage tourism into aberdeenshire.
The oil will soon go the same way as the wild salmon,
dont let this one slip the net

Dennis, Aberdeenshire, scotland

Mr. Trump has more money than he knows what to do with. Mr. Forbes appeared happy with his lot until Mr. Trump decided he wanted it. Mr Trump seems to think that 350,000 is sufficient reimbursement for Mr Forbe's way of life.Obviously Mr Trump lives in another world but his insensitivity is still quite startling.

From a personal standpoint I would be happy to travel to Scotland and stand by Mr. Forbe's side in his fight. In fact I'd consider it a privilige,

k.aldis, Torquay,

Mr. Forbes should proudly stay on his land. Some things cannot be bought. I wish more people in this country would realize that and not cave into developers. How dare Mr. Trump say that the land is in "disrepair". Just because something isn't emblazoned in gold does make it "disgusting."

Kourtney Lowery, Rohrersville, MD, USA

I think Michael Forbes should stick with it, we have enough gold courses already and Scotland is such a beautiful country the last thing it needs is the tacky Mr Trump making his glittery mark on it.

On the other hand the jobs created would be a huge boost for the economy. Could he not move the course to another spot with less to risk in the way of the environment and Mr Forbes?

Olivia Ryan, Brighton/ Glasgow, UK

Mr. Forbes, keep up the fight, as someone who lived in Scotland in the 1960's at RAF Edzell I can appreciate your love for your land. Don't be bullied.

John T. Korn, Northford, CT, USA

Three cheers for Mr. Forbes ! There is too much Trumpish excess ravaging this delicate earth and far too few Forbeses who withstand the money and pressure brought to bear upon them. Long Live Mr. Forbes!

James Bullock, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA

Good for you Mr Forbes, Don't let Trump beat you. I hate to see the rich get richer because they can afford to when the rest of us suffer because of their wealth.

Keep it up.

marcus, horndon on the hill, Essex