CAITHNESS.ORG HEADLINES ARCHIVE ::  NOVEMBER 2013

Early Christmas pressie goes down a tree-t
Wick Christmas Tree 2013
CHRISTMAS has come early for Wick folk. Reporter Noel Donaldson. They were left “pine-ing” for that quintessential of festive trappings, a tree, after it was assumed that construction of the new council offices well underway in Market Square, left no room for one, this year. However, with a little assistance from some of Santa’s local helpers, townspeople now have a tree, again. Morag Mackenzie, whose cafe looks onto the Square couldn’t bear the thought of it being treeless, during the festive season. She made a plea to wind farm owner James Innes, of Achairn, who immediately pledged a 10ft lodgepole pine from his plantation and duly delivered it. Morgan Sindall, the firm engaged in the council construction contract, also entered into the Christmas spirit.    Wick Christmas Lights Fayre

Fit's in 'e Groat 'e Day

Latest Job Ad
Modern Apprentice - Administration Support

Matthew Reiss (Independent) Elected For LandWard Caithness
Matthew Reiss wins Landward Caithness bi-electionIndpendent candidates piled up the votes easily beating the party candidates. Independent candidates had feared that with three of them standing it might lessen their chances of getting elected.  However the huge majority of voters went for independent candidates.  Mr Reiss was one of five candidates who contested the vacancy, created by the resignation of Alex MacLeod. He joins Councillors David Bremner (Independent), Willie Mackay (Independent) and Gillian Coghill (Independent) in representing the Landward Caithness Ward. Voting was by the single transferable vote and Mr Reiss emerged as the winner at the fourth stage of the count. He gained 1,150 of the 2,588 valid first preference votes cast. The quota was 1,295. 28 votes were rejected.
Landward Caithness bi-election 2013 High School pupils at the Landward Caithness bi-election New Equipment For Lybster From Caithness Heart Support Group
Monitor for Lybster
THE Lybster GP practice was the latest to benefit by an item of equipment presented by Caithness Heart Support Group. Giving the 24hr blood pressure monitor the once over, is group chairman Ernie Ross, front. Also pictured are, from the left back, Janette Sinclair, practice nurse Susan McNeill, practice manager Pat Hendry and group member Janice Macgregor.

Council steps up opposition to pay day lending     Join Hi-Scot Credit Union covering Highlands and Islands
The Highland Council is to write to the UK Government, the Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities to highlight its total opposition to the high-cost short-term credit offered by pay day lending companies and the misery that spiralling debt brings to the poorest in society.  Wick councillor Bill Fernie who is also a director of Hi-Scot credit union wants many more local people to consider joining as they offer a great place for savings fully protected and very low cost loans making them affordable.  Hi-Scot is increasing itsmemebrship and is now in a strong financial position to increase memership and with memers able to use post offices around making it very user friendly.

Courts facing "sudden and dramatic" change - sheriff

Latest Vehicles Working In Caithness
D Cowie Joinery City Electrical FactorsG M R Henderson
Gallery from the START
Independence White Paper Debate Live From Holyrood

New Wick Children's Home and Allotments - Latest Progress Photos
New Wick Childrens Home
Building works are going well and work on laying out allotments at the rear has begun.  The gateway to the allotments to provide access from Seaforth Avenue has been opened up.


New Wick Council Offices - Latest Photos
New wick Council Offices 26 November 2013


Latest Job Ad - Receptionist/Administrator - part time - JGC

Wick & District Pool League Latest Results

Castletown protests against plan to open chemist - BBC Highland
NHS Highland has said the doctors service would not be affected whatever the decision on Apple Pharmacy Group's application.

Glasgow chemist boss 'will not be bullied' on Caithness bid - BBC

Inverness first in Scotland to operate universal credit
Inverness is the first place north of the border to start universal credit. The UK rollout of the new benefit is to be completed by the end of 2017.

Scotland’s Future – blueprint for a fairer country   REFERENDUM 18th September 2014
Scotland Referendum - Comprehensive guide for a new, prosperous society. First Minister Alex Salmond today launched the “most comprehensive blueprint for an independent country ever published ”: Scotland’s Future – Your Guide to an Independent Scotland. The guide, which runs to 670 pages and 170,000 words, outlines the shape of the thriving Scotland that will emerge in the event of a vote for independence in next year’s referendum. It also offers a transformational vision of work and social policy, with a revolution in childcare at its heart.
What you need to know about the white paper but do no thave time to read 649 pages - BBC Scotland
Treasury claims taxes could rise by �1,000 - BBC
The Future of Scotland and UK If Independence comes - Institute of Fiscal Studies
YES - Scotland's Referendum     No - Better Together
Scotland's Future  - BBC
White Paper Key Extracts - BBC
Scottish independence: Will Scots living in England be able to vote in the referendum? - Scotsman
The Question For The Ballot Paper -  “Should Scotland be an independent country ?”
An Overview Of the History and the Debate - Wikipedia

Hilltop Horses Expands At Wick - Official Opening Saturday 7th December 10.00am
Hilltop Horses opening 7th December 2013hilltop Horses opening 7th December 2013Going from strength to strength the latest expansion for Hilltop Horse means they have bigger rang eof goods with something for everyone.  Opening day 7th December wlil see a number of guest stalls including Flavours Ice Cream from John O'Groats and catering so you can have a coffee or a cone.  If you are into Christmas shopping take a look into the new store in the former Home-tec Interiors building at the industrial estate, Wick - you can't miss it as it faces the main road next to the former Caithness Glass factory building.
Great Sunsets Still Appearing In Caithness
sunset facing south from Wick Sunset south from Wick
Sunset photos taken from Wick tonight.  Big Photo HERE






Polling takes place on Thursday for Landward Caithness by-election
Landward Caithness Bi-election Polling Day
On Thursday (28 November 2013) voting begins in the Landward Caithness By-election with polling stations opening their doors at 7am and remaining open for voters until 10pm. The electorate for the Ward is 8,588. Anyone who has applied for a postal vote who may not yet have posted their ballot paper is reminded that they can hand it in to any of the polling stations up until 10 pm on Thursday.


New national road policing unit launched in Fort William
New Police Initiative On Trunk Roads
Local Police Commander for Fort William is, with the Highland and Islands Roads Policing Inspector, welcoming a new national roads policing unit to Fort William, which is a first for a specialist resource of this type. The divisionally-based national Trunk Road Patrol Group will focus on Keeping People Safe on the main arterial routes in the Highlands, but it is the first time a roads policing unit have been based in the Fort William area.....The Trunk Roads Patrol Groups will primarily service the following roads within the Highland Region: A9, A96, A82, A828, A889, A95, A835, A99, A887, A87 and A830.

John Thurso Backs Prostate Cancer UK’s Quality Checklist
John Thurso Launches Prostate Cancer Check List
NHS Highland urged to act to deliver best possible care for men. MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross – John Thurso - has backed Prostate Cancer UK’s Quality Checklist as a first step towards delivering the best possible care and support for men with the disease. The call was made following a meeting between John Thurso and Prostate Cancer UK, and increases the pressure on NHS Highland to get behind the Quality Checklist. The initiative has also been backed by all constituency and regional list MSPs in the NHS Highland area.
Caithness Landward Bi-election Thursday 28th November
Ed Boyter, SNP - Kerensa Carr, Con -           Tina Irving, Ind     Matthew Reiss, Ind -  Winifred Sutherland, Ind
Ed Boyter SNP          No info re Kerensa Carr      Tina Irving       Matthew Reiss                    Winifred Sutherland

Academy drive Inverurie 'loco' in four-goal tussle
Wick Academy 2 Inveruruie Locos 2
Wick Academy   2   Inverurie Locos   2   Reporter Noel Donaldson
Academy, staved off late pressure to secure a share of the spoils. Fast-moving Locos were the more focused side from start and disrupted Wick's normally fluent, passing game. But prizes make points and it was the Scorries who drew first blood in the 25th minute, although it looked as if Sam Mackay's strike was deflected away from the keeper into the right-hand corner of the net. Locos defender Ross Anderson nearly gifted Wick, a second, when he headed against his own bar but there was "nae dubiety" about team-mate Neil McLean's 20-yard rocket, to equalise. Academy restored their lead just before half-time, a rebound falling to Ross Allan after some frantic, defensive panic. Another long-distance effort from Mclean, though, made it two-all, in the rain-swept second period and, despite goal glutton Gary Weir making a late sub appearance, that's the way it stayed. Man of the match was Alan Farquhar. Wick slip marginally into third place in the table, Brora's 4-2 win over Huntly taking them back into the top spot over Formartine, on goal difference. Wick continue their championship bid away to Buckie on Saturday.  Academy Web Site

Aladdin From Thurso players - Have You Got Your Tickets?
Aladdin - Panto by Thurso Players 2013
Live entertainment thats great for the whole family.  The wicked Abanazer is seeking the magic lamp that contains the all-powerful Genie, so that he can rule the world, and is just steps away from succeeding! Is all hope lost? No! Help is at hand! A family posse of wannabe heroes are here to foil Abanazer’s evil scheme! The innocent local lad, Aladdin, his brother, the cheeky Wishee Washee and their fearsome mother, washerwoman Widow Twankey are ready to intervene and save the day! Throw in a magic carpet, a mystical Spirit of the Ring, the Emperor of China, a beautiful princess and a couple of inept policemen and you have all the ingredients for a fantastic tale and great entertainment. Packed with songs, slapstick, silliness, audience participation for the whole family and all the fairytale magic of traditional pantomime!
New Wick Council Offices - Latest Progress Photos
New Wick Council Offices 23 November 2013 New Wick Council Offices 23 November 2013
 To see from the start Click HERE

Funding Opportunity - SSE Sustainable Development Fund Launched
SSE Sustainable Development Fund
This week saw the launch of a new charitable fund in Bonar Bridge available to Highland groups. SSE launched the Sustainable Development Fund that will draw income from the wind farms in the area. The fund will be worth �1 million in its first round and is expected to open every 18 months. Applications for the first round are open until 15 February 2014. The fund will be available to non-profitmaking organisations, community groups and charities based within the Highland Council boundary. You can apply for funding from �10,000 up to a maximum of the fund’s total value.   The focus is mainly on jobs/employment, community energy schemes, natural and built environment.
Fit's in 'e Groat 'e Day
A few snippets from the local paper
But Seriously Who Is Going To Thurso To See The Space Station?
Next few days might be your big chance.

Police Increase Enforcement On Drug Checks and Bail Curfews
Police report success over three day anti-violence initiative across Highlands and Islands. Police in the Highlands and Islands are reporting the success of a three day operation deterring and detecting violent and anti-social behaviour last week. The ongoing anti-violence initiative, known as Operation Respect, saw officers conduct high visibility patrols and visits to licensed premises across the Highlands and Islands between last Thursday and Saturday (14-16 November 2013) with the objective to deter violent and anti-social behaviour, and to provide reassurance to local communities.

Wick And District Pool League Latest
Wick and District Pool League
Suzanne Carter's Camps1 team came back from 4-2 down against Mountain Dew on Monday night to earn their third draw in four games so far this season. Carter was the standout player in this match, winning all three of her games to help her side take a 6-5 lead. The Mountain side played well in the last game as both teams gained a point in this 6-6 draw.



Caithness Gets Ready To Do Battle Over Health Services Once Again
Over 500 Turn Out -  Castletown Pharmacy Protest - Save Our Surgeries
Over 500 at Castletown Pharmacy Protest
One of the largest crowds ever seen in Castletown turned out to support the present set up for dispensing medicines in Castlewon and Canisbay.  The protest is gatheirng strength as seen by the sheer weight of numbers of peple who turned out to fill the Drill Hall in Castletown to over-flowing.  The threat ot he GP practice and their services was laid out and doctors spoke of their appreciation for the huge local support fo their efforts to keep the status quo.  Without the disipsening income they are afraid they cannot attract anther GP they desperately need as Highland is already short of 26 GP's.  After many questions and statements it was clear the first step for the public is to write to Apple Pharmacy in response the the ad in the John O'Groat Journal two weeks ago.  See it on the protest web site.  the ad is the first step byu the applicant Apple Pharmacy and the protest group led by the Castletown community council last night want as many peopole as possible to take that first step and write to Apple saying they do not wish the pharmacy to open and change the present arrangments.  Support was unamimous from councillors, community councillors and the whole audience with letters from MSPs, MP and more.  NHS Highland will make the final decision if and when an application is made.  See the Save Our Surgeries Web Site

ATLANTIS RESOURCES ACQUIRES EUROPE’S LARGEST TIDAL ENERGY PROJECT
Marine energy leader buys out MeyGen JV partners following award of offshore planning approval. International tidal technology and project developer Atlantis Resources Limited has today announced its acquisition of MeyGen, Europe’s largest tidal power project. Having already held 10% of the company developing the project, MeyGen Limited, Atlantis has elected to acquire the remaining equity from its joint venture partners Morgan Stanley and GDF SUEZ. Morgan Stanley will remain as Atlantis Resources’ largest shareholder. The announcement comes shortly after the MeyGen project received its offshore planning consents from the Scottish Government, a key milestone in the development timetable which significantly de-risks the project’s delivery. Atlantis will now work with the Scottish Government, Department for Energy and Climate Change and The Crown Estate towards commissioning of the first MeyGen turbines in 2015.

�890,000 brings rare Lowry (Black Stairs Of Wick) back home to Scotland - Herald
Blackstairs by Lowrie
The English artist famed for his matchstick figures painted Steps at Wick in 1937, when he holidayed in the Caithness town. The 17x21in oil on canvas was exhibited around �Britain but was bought by a private London �collection in 1993 and remained in the same family, out of public view, for 20 years. It was sold at Bonhams' headquarters in New Bond Street, London, to a Scots collector for �890,500 after a five-minute telephone bidding war.
     The blackstairs were restored 2005    Celebrating The New Blackstairs
First Snow Hits Caithness
Snow in Caithness november 2013Snow in Caithness November 2013

North Highland Onshore Vision Action Plan updated
A key piece of work to maximise the onshore benefits in Caithness and North Sutherland from the anticipated upsurge of marine renewables has been updated to highlight progress already made and to set new targets for the year ahead. The North Highland Onshore Vision was produced by The Highland Council in 2011 to support the development of marine renewable energy developments. This includes promotion of the area’s attractiveness for business and of ports and harbours, maximising community benefits from new development and puts local communities at the forefront.

Support Crossroads School & Scallywags Nursery Auction
With only 4 days to go to the Auction!! Local man David Morrill has kindly donated a 2KW Wind Turbine for auctioning as he is keen to see the School and Nursery flourish! So spread the word along with many more exciting items up for Auction!

Message to re-use during European Waste Reduction Week
Recycle Old Furniture
This week is the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR) and this year The Highland Council’s Waste Aware Team are getting involved. Staff will be on hand at various Recycling Centres across the region, raising the profile of the furniture re-use skips at the sites, and encouraging householders to think before they throw away, and consider whether an item can be reused. This is the 5th year of EWWR and the aim of the week is to raise awareness of ways to minimise our waste, particularly by reusing items, and encourage change in everyday behaviour in order to reduce the amount of waste produced across Europe. Officially managed in Scotland by Zero Waste Scotland, the main theme this year is to re-use.

Caithness and Sutherland prepared for winter
“The North Highlands are ready for winter” was the message given at the Caithness and Sutherland Area Committee yesterday (18 November 2014) with staff, vehicles and a plentiful supply of salt in place to treat roads and footpaths over the coming winter months. The Highland Council has increased its winter maintenance budget to �5.6 million this year and has introducing an improved service with 45,500 tonnes of salt in storage in readiness for winter. The average annual usage of salt for Caithness and Sutherland has increased over the last 3 winters and is now approximately 25,000 tonnes.

MSPs call for suspension of Castletown pharmacy application
Highlands and Islands Labour MSPs, David Stewart and Rhoda Grant, have called on NHS Highland to suspend the Castletown pharmacy application with immediate effect. The Labour MSPs had previously called on the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Alex Neil, to sanction a moratorium on the granting of community pharmacy applications after concerns with previous applications were raised with them. When called on to halt applications, the Cabinet Secretary stated that he does not have the legal powers to impose a moratorium, but if he had the powers he would have used them.   Note - NHS Highland have said that at present they do not have an application for a pharmacy at Castletown although Apple Pharmacy have taken steps to let people know they might make an application by putting a notice in the local press as they require to do before making an application.

Work of local group to promote the North Highlands as a top tourism destination
At yesterday’s (Monday 18 November 2014) Caithness and Sutherland Area Committee, members heard about the work been done by the North Highland Initiative to develop tourism in the Area with Tom Campbell, Chief Executive outlining some of the exciting destination development projects planned over the next 12 months. The North Highland Initiative (NHI) was launched in August 2005 to promote and develop the economy and to support the rural communities of the North Highlands bringing together the farming community, local businesses and the tourism industry to try to address some of the challenges facing rural communities in the far north of Scotland by creating a powerful regional identity for the area through marketing.

Funding available to create and promote employment opportunities in the North Highlands
The Highland Council has re-launched its Deprived Area Fund to help create employment opportunities and tackle poverty, with �100,000 of funding is available for parts of Caithness over the next three years. The Deprived Area Fund has disbursed a total of �1.248m to deprived areas across the Highlands over the last 3 years. The money has been used to provide grants to assist 38 community led projects focusing on helping people learn new skills and get into the jobs market. The funding is mainly used to support Pulteneytown People’s Project who run a range of activities and learning programmes which give a boost to the local economy and local people.  
Deadline for new applications 6th Janury 2014.

Rhoda Grant MSP Supports Carbon Monoxide Awareness week 18th – 24th November
Highlands and Islands (Scottish Labour) MSP, Rhoda Grant the Shadow Minister for Wellbeing is supporting Carbon Monoxide Awareness week which takes places between the 18th -24th November. Mrs Grant said,“Carbon Monoxide poisoning can have a devastating effect and the more people are made aware of the symptoms of exposure, especially at the initial stages, the more chance we have of preventing avoidable deaths or injuries. Those poisoned by just low levels of carbon monoxide go on to develop long term chronic health problems”
Protect Your Familly From the Devastating Affects Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Short Video
People can help protect themselves by making sure they and their families have all their fuel burning appliances serviced every year. Their chimney swept once or twice a year and by installing a carbon monoxide alarm in the “correct place” in their home, caravan or boat.

Latest Jobs
Cafe Assistant North Highland College - Thurso
Bank Health Care Support Workers - Dunbar Hospital, Thurso
Telesales / Customer Service - Sutherland Brothers Ltd, Wick
Newton Hill Community Woodland Workday
Sat 23rd Nov 2013 10.00 am This month we plan on planting out the car park raised bed with junipers and heathers if all the materials can be sourced in time. We also have tree tube weeding, hedge trimming, road repairs and general maintenance tasks available. Everyone is most welcome to come along and lend a little help to improve and develop the woodland.

Police Focus On Distraction Offences
Police in Highlands and Islands focus on distraction offences as part of national road safety initiative. Officers from Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division are taking part in a national road safety initiative focussing on distraction offences as part of the BRAKE National Road Safety Week.

Local Solicitor Offers Free Wills In Exhange for Donations To Philippines Disaster Appeal
Free Wills to Aid Philippines


Forum Now Up and Running

Latest Job Ad - Christmas Temp Collection and Delivery Driver
Bricklayers Wanted For Immediate Start On Local Contracts

Ripples From Thurso UK Pro Surfing Competition Still Going Out In The Press
Roger Cox: Thurso still boasts world-class waves - Scotsman/Scotland On Sunday


Winter Surf Lessons
Andy Bain - Winter Surf Lessons
ANDY BAIN, Thurso Surf School, Tel: 0844 802 5750 E: [email protected]
See the Facebook page at - https://www.facebook.com/thursosurf?hc_location=timeline
If you want inspiration about surfing in Thurso check this out -
UKPSA Scottish Surf Open - Thurso 2013  - The Waves Just Got Better and Better - Watch This Video        another video
More   Thurso surfing proved to be one of the best places this year in UK.

A Timelapse of Caithness as shown on the BBC1 series "The Great British Year"

Fit's in 'e Groat 'is Week
A one minute look at a few items in the local paper.

New Wick Council Offices - Latest Progress Photos
Wick council Offices November 2013
Steel works have gone up fast and the shape of the new offices is now clearly visible.

See photos from the start HERE




New Children's Home In Wick - Latest Photos
New children's Home, Wick 15 November 2013 New Children's Home, Wick 15th November 2013

From the start HERE Cookery Demonstration
Heart Monitor
CAITHNESS Heart Support Group is hosting a cookery demonstration tomorrow night (Saturday) and it promises to be a tasty affair. Chef Laird Sutherland, who is also a group member, is coming out of retirement to conjure up some mouth-watering recipes at the demo, scheduled to take place at the Family Centre in Bank Row, Wick. He’s keeping them under his chef’s hat but says you won’t be disappointed at tasting time. The culinary event gets underway at 7.30pm.


Thurso Golf Club Reviewed By Golfmagic.com

Wick John O'Groats Airport Passenger Numbers Increase Again
Wick Airport
HIAL passenger numbers up by 10%. The number of air passengers using Scotland’s regional airports grew by more than 10% last month. Latest figures show that HIAL – which operates 11 airports across Scotland – recorded 127,137 passengers in October, an increase of 12,124 (+10.5%) on October 2012.  Wick John O,Groats recorded an increase of 36.7% taking numbers up to 3138.

New Jobs/Vacancies In Today
Care workers - days and nights, Estate Agent (No experience required - training given), book-keeper.

Independence - Yes Or No - The Battle Lines Are Being Drawn For Real 
Currency, Taxes, Pensions, Benefits, Threats, Security Issues, Nuclear Issues, Pluses, Minuses Etc.

Referendum Bill Passed At Holyrood
The Bill to allow the people of Scotland to choose whether Scotland should be an independent country has been passed by Holyrood.
Scottish Affairs Committee White Paper On Separation
In a report published today, Friday 16th November 2013 ahead of the expected White Paper on Separation , the Commons Scottish Affairs Committee says that the Scottish Government must meet high standards of accuracy and openness and avoid any risk of using public money to promote a party political agenda.
Yes Campaign Web Site    Better Together Campaign Web Site
Castletown Save Our Medical Practice - Say No To Apple Pharmacy
The group running the Say No To Apple Pharmacy have edged their campaign up a few notches.  Web presence has been updated.  Letter campaign is now in full swing with letters to politicians local and national.  The health minister Alex Neil is targetted as having the most clout in the situation whereby most local people want to keep the dispensary at their local GP Practice.  At 9.05pm today the online petition had grown to 207 signatures.  Health board members are also being sent letters and a Castletown community council meeting will discuss the matter in the Drill Hall, Castletown on 20th November at 7.30pm.
In the forum debate is going on so anyone can add comments.
The Castletown Say No to Apple Facebook Page is attracting new Likes at an amazing rate
Read What The Doctors Say - Pdf
Say No To Apple Pharmacy - Castletown Campaign Wants Your Support
Castletown Campaign To Save Dispensaries at GP Practices


Nurse To Retire After 42 Years Working In Wick Hospitals - STV
Marjorie Moodie will retire after a career in the Bignold hospital and Bignold wing of Caithness General.

Thurso Players Panto Tickets on Sale From Monday
Mabeath's Jewellers, Trail Street, Thurso

Workplace Pensions - Employers Need To Check When They Must Enrol Staff
Workplace pensions law has changed - act now The law on workplace pensions has changed and every employer must comply. Start planning today. Find out your organisation's deadline for being compliant by checking your staging date.

Super Swimmers Yacht In Trouble

Dounreay contractor NDSL taken over by Grupo Dominguis  - BBC Highland
A Caithness-based firm involved in decommissioning Dounreay has been taken over by Spanish nuclear industry company Grupo Dominguis (GD).

Fit's in 'e Courier 'is Week
Snippets from the local paper.

Garden waste kerbside collections to stop over winter
Brown bin collections end for 3 month at end of November
Householders are reminded that their garden waste collections will stop for 3 months during the winter with no brown bin collections in December, January or February. The final 2013 collection day for garden waste will be Friday 29th November. Collections will start again on Monday 3rd March 2014. In the meantime people can still make use of the garden waste skip at their your local Recycling Centre. Please check for availability by visiting www.highland.gov.uk/recycle or call 01349 886603.

Boost for Highland businesses with recruitment grants and advice
Through the financial support of The Highland Council and specialist recruitment advice delivered by Business Gateway Highlands’ Recruitment Service, 170 new jobs have been created in the Highlands over the last 18 months. The Highland Council’s specially designed funding initiatives – the Employment Grant and Graduate Placement Programme – have simultaneously encouraged and supported the growth of local companies, and helped graduates and local people out of work to gain full-time employment that has given them new skills and invaluable experience.

Ainmean-�ite na h-alba welcomes new chair
The author of the first comprehensive Gaelic map of Scotland has been appointed as Chair of Ainmean-�ite na h-Alba (A�A), the national authority on Gaelic place-names in Scotland. Former councillor, life-long supporter of the Gaelic language and place-name enthusiast Roy Pedersen has taken up the position as A�A’s new Chair. Roy is taking over from Donald Morris of Comann na G�idhlig, who was significant in making A�A the successful organisation it is today. A�A provides guidance to a wide variety of organisations for various purposes including bilingual and Gaelic road signs, commercial signs, maps, presentation and research, and receives core funding from B�rd na G�idhlig with both financial and in-kind support from Highland Council.

Water fear woman first to kayak length of Britain  - Herald
A GRADUATE who says she is scared of water has become the first woman to kayak the length of Britain. Emily Bell was the support paddler who kept swimmer Sean Conway company as he stroked his way from Land's End to John O'Groats. But while Mr Conway, 32, became the first swimmer to complete the 1000-mile feat, it has emerged that 28-year-old Miss Bell, from London, is believed to have become the first female kayaker to do the same journey.

Dingwall & Highland Mart Prices From Yesterday
We publish Dingwall and Highland Mart Prices as soon as they are sent out by the mart.

Christmas Events Flowing In to Our Whats On Guide - Don't Miss Out - it's FREE
Many local groups have put their events into our What's On guide.  Businesses can also take advantage and get lots of FREE coverage. It is simple and easy to use.  Just fill in the online form and once we give it a look it will be approved and go live.  Remember our What's On items flow into our Facebook page and they al appear in thisw pe on the day of the event and many other places across our web sites.  Check out a few Christmas Events coming in November....
Bower Busy Bees Christmas Fayre
Christmas Craft Show
Wick Christmas Lights Fayre
Gift for Christmas Weekend At Castle Of Mey
See the whole of November Caithness.org What's On
December filling up fast with events - check out where Santa will be?   Get your event on FREE

Flow Country Arts
Flow Country Arts Sale
Exhibition of Art works for sale.

14th - 16th Novermber 2013

Norseman Hotel, Wick




Feedback sought on updated planning framework for Dounreay
Dounreay
Tomorrow (15 November 2013) The Highland Council launches a public consultation on the Dounreay Planning Framework 2: Draft Supplementary Guidance. The Highland Council approved the existing Dounreay Planning Framework in January 2006, as a land use development brief against which to regulate and control future decommissioning and restoration works proposed at the former nuclear power research site at Dounreay, near Thurso in Caithness.

New head teacher for Thurso High School
Ken Murphy - New Head Teacher Thurso High School - November 2013
The Highland Council has appointed Mr Ken Murphy, to the post of Head Teacher of the 804-pupil Thurso High School. Mr Murphy, who has been the Acting Head Teacher since August of this year, succeeds Dr Fiona Grant, who has reverted to a teaching post at the school. Mr Murphy has an in-depth knowledge of the school and its community, having taught and managed at the school since September, 1986.

Landward Caithness Properties In Line For Energy Saving Grants
Highland Council and E.ON write to home owners about energy savings. The Highland Council and partners E.ON are writing to people to offer energy saving improvements that will help save energy and money in their homes. The energy and money savings are being offered are under the Home Energy Efficiency Programme for Scotland – Area Based Scheme (HEEPS-ABS) which is being administered and managed for the Scottish Government by The Highland Council in the Highland area.

Autism unit to benefit Highland families and young people
The development of a residential unit for children with autism at the new Inverness Royal Academy was endorsed today by members of The Highland Council’s Adult and Children’s Services Committee subject to further consideration of revenue and capital implications and a full business case.

Interesting Part-time Job
Co-ordinator Vacancy - Wickers in Action during the 1st World War

The post is part-time at 7 hours per week.

The Inn At John O'Groats Features In This Month's Edition Of Premier Construction Magazine
Premier construction Magazine - John O'Groats Inn Article
Flip through the pages to page 57 - the whole magazine is online.

The Inn at John O’Groats follows the restoration of the former John O’Groats Hotel which was originally built in 1875. The multi-million development is the most recent of Natural Retreats’ projects. Natural Retreats offer luxury self catering facilities all over the world including the picturesque natural wilderness in Caithness in the North of Scotland. The vibrant, colourful apartments are nestled in an area rife with natural beauty. Visitors can witness the Northern Lights, take a day trip to the Orkneys, or even take part in real-life treasure hunting; at the most northerly tip of Scotland.

Education capital projects progress in Highland schools
The revised programme to construct the building to replace the existing Wick High School, Pulteneytown Academy Primary School, South Primary School, Wick Carnegie Public Library and Wick Swimming Pool, which will be known as the Wick Community Campus, has been formally agreed with Hub North Scotland Limited (HNSL) and Miller Construction UK (MCUK).
Have You Thought About Ice Cream Cakes For Christmas

New Jobs/Vacancies Today

Would You Like To Learn To Build Another Skiff For Wick

Weigh in and Work Out  - Event  Cancelled
Unfortunately due to unseen circumstances this event has bEen cancellEd. The organisers sends apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Young Highland Musicians Prepare For Concerts Festival
Young Highland Musicians Rehearse
Young Highland performers prepare to celebrate their musical achievements at showcase concert festival. Over 300 young musicians from across the Highlands have been busy rehearsing for their showcase Concerts Festival which will feature performances from eight different groups in collaboration with internationally acclaimed Scottish conductor Garry Walker and members of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Held in the Osprey Arena at MacDonald Aviemore Resort on Saturday 23 November, the festival will open at 2.20pm with a specially written and exciting drum fanfare performed by the drum corps of Highland Youth Pipe Band. Next on stage will be the Highland Schools Wind Band at 2.30pm. They will be followed at 3.10pm by C�isir G, the Gaelic choir then the Highland Youth Big Band will take to the stage at 3.50pm.

Christmas Trees and Santa At Dunnet Forest
Why not take the kids to see Santa and collect your tree on the 14th of December.  Order your tree before 4th December.

Call for Highland Baton Bearers
The Queen's Baton Relay will officially be celebrated in The Highlands on Friday 11th July 2014, but this will not be the only day of activity in the region. There is an opportunity for over 100 local people to carry the baton in approximately 15 different towns across the Highlands so organisers are spreading the message that "The Queen's Baton Relay is 'relay, relay' coming to a town near you" to encourage local communities to get involved and nominate local baton bearers.
Scottish Tarmac Championship 2013
Scottish Tarmac Trials 2013
The final round of the Blue Scottish Tarmac Championship was held at the old Second World War airfield at Crail, Fife. Bill & Sara Hamilton Travelled down to compete in their Opel Kadett 2000cc rally car. Due to work commitments Bill has not been able to compete in many rounds this year, even though they were still lying in 3rd in class 3 2000cc rally cars but this final round could see them being overtaking by 2 other competitors in both the drivers and navigators scoring.
Christmas Hampers Made To Order by Thurso Grocer
Hampers made to order
Mackays Grocers in Thurso will make hampers up to your speciifications. Want a Caithness product theme - no problem. Hampers can contain a range of Caithness made goods from drinks to sweets to biscuits and much more. A wide range of goods can be selected for your hampers. Just get in touch or call in to discuss your requirements.
         


All Caithness businesses Can Get Free Ads on Caithness.or in the run up to Christmas
We want to help you beat the recession - reduce costs - get your free ads

Public invited to annual marine energy event
Residents are invited to a public Information Day at Caithness Horizons, Thurso, on Monday 18 November from 4pm - 7pm to hear the latest news on the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters wave and tidal energy projects. The projects are among the first commercial-scale marine renewable energy schemes in the world and are located within the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters Marine Energy Park. The event will provide an opportunity to hear about progress with project developments, give comments and views, ask questions and meet a number of organisations involved. This is the fourth year of the annual events in Thurso and Kirkwall, which have attracted hundreds of visitors to date. Twelve project sites are in development with work covering surveying, environmental impact assessments and engineering design. The project developers are also being supported by a number of organisations:

Launchpad for Carbon Clever Highlands
More than 100 delegates attended a conference at Inverness on Friday 8th November 2013 organised by The Highland Council to launch Carbon CLEVER Highlands – an ambitious project that has a target of a carbon neutral Inverness in a low carbon Highlands by 2025.

Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership - Update

Attempted Theft From Pulteneytown Post Office - Man Arrrested
Police Scotland would like to thank members of the Wick community for their assistance in resolving this incident

The Flower Shop Special Event In Thurso and Wick
Flower Shop Event Wick and Thurso
The Flower Shop are holding a special event to thank our customers for their continued support. Wednesday 13th November in our Wick branch 9am – 7pm Wednesday 20th November in our Thurso branch 9am – 7pm 10% off ALL giftware, including our Christmas range and ALL fresh and artificial flowers (excluding Interflora)...


Case continues against ex-Highlands councillor - The Scotsman

More Jobs/Vacancies Just Posted

Fishermen's Mission In Scrabster To Close  - Photos Etc To Be Uplifted
The Fishermen's Mission, Scrabster has a collection of old photographs and fishing memorabilia on display in the games room that were used over the last 5 years or more for a fishing exhibition. Many of the photos and memorabilia items were kindly provided by local fishermen or people in the local community.

FREE Christmas Ads For Local Businesses From Now
FREE Christmas Ads For Local Businessses
Caithness and Sutherland businesses can take advantage once again of our offer to run your ads in the run up to Christmas completely FREE of charge. Just send us your article ready to go with a photo and we will get it on our business section linked to your FREE business index page. The ADS be selectively highlighted over coming weeks and also mentioned on our main Caithness.org front page from time to time.


Local Charities - Get Your Christmas Events Advertised FREE In Caithness.org What's On
Feee Event AdvertisingYou can get lots of free advertsing for your events if you get them into the what's On as soon as you can.  Add a poster or photo for an even brighter ad.  If we spot some good ones we may also highlight them on our front page. they head to our Facebook and Twitter pages.  .....and it is not just chariity events.  If you are running quizes special Christmas meals at hotels and restaurants then get in fast to the What's On.  Christmas dances, musical nights get them in and sell those tickets.  Pantos, shows, art exhibitions, choirs, carol concerts.  If you have any event in the next few weeks make sure you get it in our what's On as soon as you can.  It's FREEEEEEEEEEE.
Mey Christmas Weekend

Does Your Business Qualify For Small Business Bonus Scheme - Make Sure Your Are Saving
Top uptake in Highland of Small Business Bonus Scheme
 - Big Savings For Small Businesses
For the sixth year running, The Highland Council has the highest up take of Small Business Bonus Relief in Scotland, with 8,715 local businesses benefitting from a reduction of between 25% and 100% in their rates during 2013/14. The Scottish Government introduced the Small Business Bonus Scheme in April 2008 to replace the existing Small Business Rates Relief Scheme. Initially the new scheme provided relief to ratepayers with properties in Scotland with a combined rateable value of �18,000 or less. Since the launch it has been expanded and now where the cumulative rateable value of a ratepayer's properties, within Scotland, falls between �18,000 and �25,000, the Scheme will offer 25% relief to individual properties with a rateable value of up to �18,000.

Meanwhile At Sellafield
CLEAN-UP AT SELLAFIELD POWER PLANT IN CUMBRIA SLAMMED  - Northwest Evening Mail
CASH is being “scattered like confetti” by the company leading the clean-up of the Sellafield site.

Several New Vacancies and Positions Posted Today
A range of new job vacancies are posted today in the forum.

Enhanced inspection to continue until hazards reduce further
Dounreay site
A report published on Tuesday 5th November 2013 underlines how much work remains to be done at Dounreay before the site can be left in a safe condition for future generations. The Office for Nuclear Regulation Chief Nuclear Inspector's annual report says its inspection of the site will be at an “enhanced level” because of the continuing presence of major radiological hazards. Welcoming the report, DSRL managing director Mark Rouse said the company is on course to complete the clean-up of the site by 2022-25.

Early Dounreay Photos
First Fifty Years Of Dounreay
Dounreay From Above
Dounreay Castle    Dounreay Castle History

New powers for Scotland’s communities
Plans for greater local decision making. A new law will make it easier for communities to take over public sector land and buildings, reform the community right to buy and give communities greater say in the provision of services. The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Bill is designed to strengthen and nurture community participation and encourage enterprising community development. Communities will be able to identify and ask for any public sector land or buildings that they feel they could make better use of than its current owner.

David Stewart MSP Congratulates Thurso Cinema
Highlands and Islands (Scottish Labour) MSP David Stewart has congratulated Thurso cinema on receiving a highly commended award at the “Screen International Awards” held in London last Wednesday evening which saw the Ormlie Road venue receive an award in the exhibitor of the year category for cinemas with 50 screens or under.

Wick & District Pool League - Rockwater Shield
Wick and Distric Pool League - 7 November 2013
Alan Larnach's Crown1 team showed great battling qualities on Monday night as they came from 3-0 down to defeat Retro1 6-4 in the first round of the Rockwater Shield. Fantastic clearances from Stevie Wyllie and Alan Stewart in the last two frames helped the Crown side gain a narrow lead in this first leg match. Second division side Crown2 defeated division one's Seaforth Club in the upset of the night. The Crown second team have been in great form so far this season, and a 6-2 win here gives them a great chance of progressing to the next round.

Financial and environmental success for Climate Change Focus Farms
Climate friendly farming methods can save farmers money and help them reduce their carbon footprint. Scotland’s first three Climate Change Focus Farms have saved almost �60,000 between them over the past three years and two of the businesses reduced their carbon footprint by at least 10 per cent.

Rhoda Grant MSP Welcomes Caithness General Report
Shadow Wellbeing Minister Welcomes Healthcare Environment Inspectorate Report on Caithness General Rhoda Grant MSP, the Shadow Wellbeing Minister, part of the opposition health team in parliament, has welcomed the publication of a report by the Healthcare Environment Inspectorate who made an unannounced inspection of the Wick hospital back in September.
Wick's Caithness General 'meeting most' hygiene rules - BBC

Goose petition referred to Rural Affairs Committee
Estimations are that there were around 150 breeding pairs of Greylag geese in the Outer Hebrides during the mid 1980s. Today the Uists alone are home to an estimated 10,000 Greylag geese and the population is growing. The Scottish Crofting Federation advise that the situation is similar in other parts of the crofting areas and state that “Crofter’s complaints about the goose problem are not new but it is now reaching devastating proportions in Tiree, Islay and the Uists, and is fast becoming the same in the rest of the Western Isles, the Northern Isles and parts of the mainland.” The geese are harmful to crofting as they eat grass, destroy crops and soil the land.

Workshops to capitalise on potential �2.4 billion from Scottish ancestral tourism
Scottish tourism businesses, community groups and social enterprises are being encouraged to tap into ancestral tourism opportunities. A series of Ancestral Tourism workshops are being held across Scotland throughout November in the run up to 2014, when Scotland welcomes the world for Homecoming, the Ryder Cup and Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Across the Highlands and Islands, workshops are to be held in Helmsdale, Inverness, Kilmartin, Stornoway, Elgin and Shetland. Businesses, social enterprises and community groups interested in making the most of what could be year-round opportunities are being encouraged to attend.
Fit's in 'e Courier 'e Day
A few snippets from the local paper.

School Rolls In Caithness Show 5 Year Decline
School Rolls Caithness
Highland council have published the school roll figures for 2013/14.  These show that Caithness schools over the five years continue to have falling rolls.  In the five years to 2013/14 Thurso High has fallen from 942 to 802 and Wick High fallen from 801 to 681.   Primary Schools have mixed numbers with Miller Academy in Thurso falling from  290 to 204.  Pennyland had a slight rise whilst Mount Pleasant stayed steady at 178 to 179.  In Wick Primary Schools Pulteneytown Academy showed the biggest rise from 195 to 214. Hillhead declined from 176 to 164.  North showed a slight increase while South showed a slight fall.  The overall trend is a slow decline in numbers.  In rural schools the picture is mixed.  The total school population for Highland was 31,744 in 2009/10 and had dropped to 30,917 in 2013/14.  These figures mask the big increases in Inverness and declines in most other areas.  Two new primary schools opened in recent years in inverness -  Inches and Milton of Leys and both have had to have extra classrooms added as soon as they opened due to the huge rise in local population surrounding them.

We're Running Out Of Room For Wind Farms - Call for Moratorium - National Wind Watch
As more wind farm applications keep coming forward anti-wind farm campaigners are hotting up their arguments for a moratoriium until the total impact can be assessed.  Councils cannot instigate a moratorium and Scottish Government would require to call a halt and this seems unlikely in the face of their policy to vastly increase energy from renewables.

Radiation dose to public from Dounreay reduces
Dounreay DomeDounreay’s radioactive impact on the environment continues to fall, according to a report. The annual survey report “Radioactivity in Food and the Environment” (RIFE 2012) has recently been published.  The report uses data obtained from samples of air, fresh water, grass, soil, and locally sourced meat, fish, milk and vegetables during 2012. It shows that the overall radiation dose to the public from eating food sourced around Dounreay has continued to decrease.

Police To Target Illegal Drivers In Huge Enforcement Campaign
Police and Crimestoppers to take part in initiative to target illegal drivers. As of 07:00 hours on Monday 4 November 2013 until 07:00 hours on Monday 11 November 2013, Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division and Crimestoppers Highlands and Islands will be taking part in a national joint initiative to target illegal drivers. Illegal driving offences include drink/drug drivers, disqualified drivers, insurance and licence offences, and associated vehicles driven such as no MOT. Information provided by the Motor Insurance Bureau (MIB) has shown that uninsured and untraced drivers are responsible for approximately 130 fatal collisions and 26,500 injury collisions each year in the UK.
Highland Council and partners to develop Highland Science Academy for future jobs
The Highland Council and partners from both public bodies and leading companies in the Highlands are working to deliver a science academy for the Highlands aimed at children of all ages from pre-school to further education. The aim is to open up opportunities for Highland young people to benefit from thousands of future skilled job opportunities in the decades to come. There is massive job growth predicted in the oil, gas, renewable, engineering and life sciences sectors but a shortage of people locally who have the skills or educational background to take advantage of these. Highland Science Academy aims to provide the link for young people to grow up in the Highlands with every opportunity to see these higher paid careers as a serious choice for them.

New online passport system means faster and cheaper service
New Passport Office
Customers in North East Scotland applying for their first passport no longer face a journey of around 200 miles to Inverness to be interviewed, thanks to a new service which has opened in Wick. The new service , located at the Council's Service Point in Girnigoe Street, Wick, offers first-time passport customers a video-link interview with the main passport office in Glasgow. Previously customers faced the cost and inconvenience of traveling all the way to Inverness for an interview. The service was launched on Monday and the first customer was Wendy Inkson, a resident of John O'Groats which is the mainland's most northerly location.
Call To Save Medical Services In Castletown On Facebook Campaign
rural health servic es are often very fragile and the viability of the Castletown medical services in particlar are being threatened by the possibilityof  a new pharmacy being opened in the chip shop. with change of use of premises.  A meeting has been called as per the forum message - Meeting in Castletown Drill Hall 20th Nov @ 7.30pm

Caithness Heart Support Group Talks

Pultney Centre Courses Starting Soon
If you are looking to do something interesting over the coming weks or months then check out the new range of courses at Pultney Centre, Wick.

Orphaned otter cubs found at Thurso beach - BBC
Two orphaned otter cubs are being cared for by the Scottish SPCA after being found in distress at Thurso beach in Caithness. The 10-week-old males had been were spotted by a member of the public. They were scared off by two dogs and were eventually found hiding under a wheelie bin in a nearby garden. SSPCA senior inspector Audrey Gunn managed to trap the pair. They are receiving care at the charity's rescue centre in Clackmannanshire. The cubs, found on 26 October, have been named Thurso and Surf.

Save and Borrow With Hi-Scot Credit Union
Becoming a member of a credit union may  be one of the most sensible decision you ever make.  Even if you do not want to borrow check out the dividend.  If you do want to borrow become a member and check out what are amongst the lowest borrowing rates in the country.  Loans can be for almost any reasonable purpose and are very affordable  and worth checking before you borrow from anywhere else.  Hi-Scot credit union cover Highaland and Islands.  You can use any post office to save and make withdrawals or make direct debits.

Police Clamp Down On Anti-Social Behaviour
20 identified addresses visited following operation focusing on noise related anti-social behaviour. On Friday 1 November 2013, police across the Highlands and Islands carried out an operation focusing on reducing noise related anti-social behaviour and conduct at identified residential addresses. 20 residential addresses were visited, with some being re-contacted to ensure the work started on Friday continues. Extra patrols of residential areas and a hospital A&E department also took place.

Forum Member Points Way To Money Off Vouchers
Maye you know of others so why not add any info to the thread already started and save everyone more cash.

Roof Going On At New Children's Home At Wick
New Children's Home - 4 November 2013
The Welsh slates will soon be going on as the crates of them are lined up waiting.
Photos from the start.



Bid to halt wind farm plans over switch-off payments  - Herald

MSP Praises Airport Usage Increase
Airport Manager William Sutherland and MSP Rhoda Grant
Visiting Wick John O’Groats Airport recently, Highlands and Islands (Scottish Labour) MSP Rhoda Grant has praised the boost in airport usage by around 120 % due to the increased demand from the energy industry. Chevron uses Wick John O' Groats Airport as its base to transport offshore workers to its rigs. Helicopters transporting oil industry workers offshore have seen the number of passengers at Wick John O' Groats Airport increase by almost 120%. Figures from HIAL showed that 4634 passengers used Wick John O' Groats airport in September, an increase of 119.1% compared to the same month 12 months ago.
Selling Your Unwanted Items Is Easy and FREE on Caithness.org
Still plenty of time to clear the attic and the garage of unwanted items and get cash for Christmas.

Local business woman enters the race for the Landward seat
Tina Irvine
Tina Irving lives at Dunnet Head with her partner of 30 years, Brian Sparks. Tina is a retired project manager from financial services, and moved to Caithness in 2000. Having travelled the world, including the contentious and difficult Middle East, she now considers Caithness home and enjoys developing projects, the latest one being the North Highland Way. A graduate of London South Bank (LSBU) and Heriot Watt Universities, Tina has sat on many local committees and is very interested in renewable energy. Her post graduate studies included a dissertation on the effects of windfarms on tourism.
There are five candidates for the Caithness Landward bi-election to be held following the resignation of Alex McLeod.
Caithness Landward Candidates -
Ed Boyter, Scottish National Party (SNP)
Kerensa Carr, Scottish Conservative and Unionist
Tina Irving, Independent
Matthew Reiss, Independent
Winifred Sutherland, Independent
The by-election will be held on Thursday 28 November 2013 and voting will take place at 14 polling stations between 7.00 am – 10.00 pm.
Candiidates are invited to send photos and statements for publication on Caithness.org by email to [email protected]

More Steel Added As Construction Speeds Ahead At New Wick Council Offices
Wick Council Offices 2 November 2013


Demolition and Construction From the Start



Clapshot By W T Lyall
Clapshot by W T Lyall
If today is not a day for going out for long perhaps you wil enjoy areading a few of the Late Willie Lyall's poems in Caithness dialect.
To see slightly larger images right click and open the image in a new tab or window.  Then see if your memory fits with these memories of a past era.

Caithness Dialect Poetry On Caithness.org
Poems of Alexander Miller
Kaitness Fowk - Poems and Stories by John Horne
Tatties an Hereen by Castlegreen
Caithness Bitties By Isabel Salmon
Poems by Jenny Stewart
Poems by the Later W T Lyall
Poems of the late James Begg
Poems of Jessie Begg
Anonymous Caithness Poems
Other non-dialect poetry on Caithness.org

Coal Arrived In Time to Keep Caithness Warm
Caol Boat At Wick
This boat was unloading coal to keep everyone warm this winter.





The Birds Gather On The Pier at Wick Each Day Before Going Fishing
This crew are on duty every day before they go fishing.


Balmy Days At Wick Harbour From August
Balmy Days at Wick Harbour
There can be little doubt that the marina at Wick harbour has changed the look and activities that take place.  Add to that some nice days this past summer and it was a great place to be.



A Recent Rainbow Over Wick
Rainbow Over Wick
With the mixed weather we get in Caithness it is not suprising that the phenomena of rainbows are very commonly seen. Perhaps we wil see some when this wet day begins to clear up.  Well we can always live in hope.......



Heading For John O'Groats in May
Heading For John O'Groats Heading for John O'Groats in May


Further Back to Springtime At the Wick River
Seal at Wick River
THIS seafarer might not be quite as big as his walrus cousin which visited the shores of North Ronaldsay but he still turned a few heads when he came up river to sample the spring sunshine below Wick town bridge. The seal settled on a rock only a few yards from the bank and appeared to lap up the attention from passers-by and photographers.

HOW do you get rid of those troublesome autumn leaves?
Autumn Leaves in Argyle Square, Wick, Caithness
Simple – you just blow them away! That’s what James Rosie (left) and Michael Lochrie are doing with the carpet of leaves strewn all over the Argyle Square greens in Wick. The pair who work for Highland Council’s technical services department blow the leaves into the gutters and they’re sucked up by a municipal truck.

So The Weather Today is Dreadful  - But Cast Your Mind Back To Not long Ago
Those Hazy Days of Summer at Thurso Beach
Those hazy, lazy summer days on sunspots such as Thurso beach seem a distant memory.  Roll on next summer......



Fit's in 'e Groat 'e Day
A few snippets from the local paper today.

Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership - Update
Rolls Royce has confirmed its commitment to work in Caithness until 2030
Subsea 7’s Willie Watt voted Energy North Ambassador 2013.
Energy North Awards 2103 dinner saw Scrabster Harbour Trust awarded Best Oil & Gas Supplier
Thurso East waves were “the best ever for a British surf contest”.
Thurso Cinema was highly commended at the Screen International awards.
New AK1500 tidal device, which could be deployed as part of the Meygen development.

Golden Eagle Soars High As Scotland’s Number 1
Golden Eagle Number One In Scotland Poll
SNH and VisitScotland Scotland’s Big 5 vote sees public nominate golden eagle as the country’s favourite. The golden eagle has overwhelmingly topped the vote in a campaign to find the country’s favourite wild animal. The impressive bird of prey was competing against the red deer, red squirrel, harbour seal and otter. Thousands of votes were recorded online following the campaign launch in spring this year and voting closed yesterday (31 October).


Seeking views on Scotland’s wild land map
Wild Land Map Consultation
People are being asked to give their views on Scotland’s wild land as Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) today (1 November) launches an seven week consultation on a map showing core areas of wild land across the country. The map is a result of SNH’s work to advise Scottish Government and others on the extent and location of the wild land resource in Scotland. As part of the recent Scottish Government consultations on the Main Issues Report for the National Planning Framework 3, and draft revised Scottish Planning Policy, a number of respondents offered comments on the detail of the wild land map. In light of these comments, the Scottish Government has asked SNH to carry out a consultation about the map.

Thurso Fireworks and Bonfire - Saturday 9th November - Esplanade
Thurso Bonfire 9th November 2013
Highland joins Scotland’s fight against fire and urges locals to attend organised bonfire displays. In the run up to Bonfire Night, The Highland Council and partners - Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland - are asking people to “remember, remember on the 5th of November” that organised bonfire displays are safer and more spectacular.

Steelwork Going Up Fast At New Wick Council Offices
Wick council Offices 31 October 3013 Wick Council Offices 31 October 2013

From the Start

Log Sale At Dunnet Forest - Saturday 2nd November

Front Page Headlines Archive Index From 2000 Onwards