Let me start with a presumption. Which is that many of you will retain, like me, fond memories of the late and very great Rikki Fulton.

I recall him as the ultimate pantomime star. But Rikki was also an accomplished dramatic performer.

And, of course, his inimitable TV shows. Do you remember the sketch when, as the Rev I.M. Jolly, he is reflecting upon the year just past? Gazing lugubriously at the audience, he intones: “I don’t know what sort of a year you’ve had. But see me, I’ve had a helluva year.”

It would be entirely understandable if our First Minister, Humza Yousaf, delivered a similar verdict upon the 12 months which have now elapsed since he took his oath of office.

However, he remains ostensibly upbeat. Cheery, even. When opponents chide and lampoon, he assures them that they are quite entitled to pursue him with vigour.

The anniversary is no exception. The Tories say the year gone by is a “tale of independence obsession, abject failures and broken promises.” Labour characterises Mr Yousaf as a “weak leader” in command of a “chaotic and divided” government.

Mr Yousaf’s response? A news release wishing everyone a Happy Easter. Duly reciprocated, FM.

OK, so that is satirical insolence from me. The First Minister also took time this week to rebut some of the criticisms levelled at him.

Perhaps the most common verdict one hears at Holyrood is that Humza Yousaf is a thoroughly decent guy – but not quite up to the job.

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