Renato Belli – A Change of Direction

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Ed writes:

“A few weeks ago, I was walking along a corridor in Raigmore Hospital in Inverness when I heard a familiar voice behind me, delivered in a strong Dingwall accent: “How are you doing, Coff?” It was none other than Renato Belli — one half of an unforgettable double act with his dad Louie, who ran Tony’s ice cream shop on Alness High Street for many years.

Bumping into Renato is always a treat. He brings such energy and good humour that you can't help but feel better after a few minutes in his company.

These days, Renato is still working at Raigmore Hospital in a clerical role — he must be nearing retirement, surely! But he’s as lively as ever, and when we met, he was especially keen to tell me about his latest adventure.

Those who know Renato will remember his love of cricket. He played for Ross County for many years, and now he’s turned that passion into a new role — he’s a qualified cricket umpire. The job takes him all over the North, and he spoke with real enthusiasm about how much he enjoys it. “I get well looked after at every ground,” he told me with a grin. “Plenty of scoff!”

It’s great to see someone like Renato continuing to embrace life with such energy. From scooping cones to calling no balls, he’s never been one to sit still for long.”