NorthLink’s ferries between Shetland and Aberdeen are to leave approximately an hour earlier than at present and run on half power in an effort to cut down on fuel costs, it has emerged following a surprise announcement by the Scottish government.

Discussions will also be held between the transport minister Stewart Stevenson and NorthLink bosses over potential reductions in the number of sailings in the quieter winter months, a proposal already firmly rejected by businesses in the isles.

It was evident after Mr Stevenson’s statement on Tuesday that NorthLink had not been informed in advance of the government’s decision. A spokesman for the company said: “NorthLink provides ferry services in accordance with an operating contract awarded by the Scottish government. The government are entitled to make whatever changes they wish to the terms of that contract and require us to implement them, which is what we will now do.”

Shetland Recreational Trust is facing a potential shortfall of £400,000 in next year’s budget if Shetland Islands Council decides it will not pay for schools’ use of leisure centres.

After extensive discussions during last year’s cash-saving exercise at the trust, the council agreed to increase the amount it paid from around £100,000 to £400,000 to reflect the true cost of using the centres.

But at an SRT meeting on Monday heard that the council would not be abiding by its promise as part of a series of cuts and new and additional charges for services including instrument tuition for school pupils.

Ness players get ready to charge during a Deltmavine penalty corner. Click on image to enlarge.

Saracens, RECKless and Deltmavine all had comfortable wins in the final round of indoor hockey matches, while Lobbyless received the points against Crusaders.

Saracens 5, Deltmavine 1

In a very evenly-matched game Saracens and Deltmavine fought for control during the first half, testing both defences to the limit.

But Saracens’ hard work paid off with great play from Debbie Sneddon in defence and Zoe Irvine in midfield, as they hit the back of the net towards the end of the first half, giving them a one-goal lead going into the break.

Cyclist Christine McLean got her season off to a great start by winning the women’s prize in the first Scottish time trial event of the year.

The week’s indoor cricket matches saw wins for The Mighty Six, Bonxies and the Stingrays. The change of players in each team for the second half of the indoor season was meant to make for very close games but Lerwick have struggled to get their team to fire and the Bonxies have managed to win all their games to date with comparative ease.