SSE admits cable testing caused Girlsta fire
SSE has confirmed the fire near Girlsta Loch on Friday was caused by one of their cables igniting during testing.
SSE has confirmed the fire near Girlsta Loch on Friday was caused by one of their cables igniting during testing.
Thick weekend fog resulted in a lifeboat callout on Saturday after the coastguard helicopter was unable to get through. The crew of the Aith lifeboat…
The SIC has warned drivers to take care after reports of an oil spill between Gulberwick and Sandwick. Around eight miles of the A970 main…
Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary said it got a “big shock” after a premature seal pup was spotted in Rerwick. The tiny seal, who was been named…
Shetland have lost their Scottish District Cup final to Edinburgh University 4’s.
The reds gained revenge for defeat in the same fixture 12 months ago, winning 1-0 today (Sunday).
A goal in the opening quarter was the only difference between the sides.
Shetland were unable to play their usual free-flow attacking game, with Edinburgh nullifying their opponents superbly.
Aimee Keith came closest to an equaliser in quarter three, her shot clipping the woodwork on its way wide.
Thousands of people were left without power last night (Saturday) after reports of a pole on fire near Mossbank.
All of the North Isles were affected by the outage, with parts of the North Mainland also without power.
Some parts of Yell, Unst and Fetlar only had power restored in the early hours of the morning.
The Shetland Folk Festival concert in Baltasound was one of those plunged into darkness during the night, along with a concert in Aith.
SSE said power had since been restored to all properties.
Fire and police crews have attended the scene of a one-vehicle crash near Tingwall tonight (Saturday).
Appliances from Lerwick and Sandwick were called to the crash at 5.18pm in the Tingwall valley.
Police also attended, and fire crews left the scene by 5.57pm.
Two men were checked over at the scene.
The road was briefly blocked, but is now open again.
The roof was raised on the Hamnavoe Hall last night as a veritable fiddle frenzy got under way.
The Ringin’ Strings with a Twist concert attracted a huge crowd, despite the sunny weather outside that might have been more of a draw for some.
First up were local band Beltane Ree, whose seven-strong line-up impressed with their mix of contemporary and traditional music.
After that it was the turn of Inn Echo to take to the stage. From Prince Edward Island, this trio of tradition keepers and tune makers had much of the crowd in their hands – particularly a Canadian contingent who had travelled to the isles to see the festival.
Another local highlight was the Ross Couper Band, led by the well-known fiddle virtuoso who has become a familiar face at the festival over recent years.
Having cemented his reputation at Celtic Connections, Cooper and his companions proved to be a star attraction of the night.
Finally, it was the turn of Norwegian folk/rock group Gangar to raise the roof. Showing tremendous energy with bags of showmanship in reserve, this energetic five piece ensemble dug deep into Norway’s musical traditions, and served them up with a fresh, and lively, twist.
A visually stunning book showcasing Shetland’s natural history by one of the islands’ most renowned naturalists and photographers. Thomason’s passion for both the wildlife and the islands exude from every …
A visually stunning book showcasing Shetland’s natural history by one of the islands’ most renowned naturalists and photographers. Thomason’s passion for both the wildlife and the islands exude from every …
FIND OUT MOREOur bestseller now reprinted for a fifth time. A classic story of secret wartime missions across the North Sea. Dark winters provided the perfect cover for missions to occupied Norway …
Our bestseller now reprinted for a fifth time. A classic story of secret wartime missions across the North Sea. Dark winters provided the perfect cover for missions to occupied Norway …
FIND OUT MOREThe call of the running tide has greatly influenced Louis Johnson, his family and friends and is the common thread throughout this life story spanning almost 90 years from boyhood …
The call of the running tide has greatly influenced Louis Johnson, his family and friends and is the common thread throughout this life story spanning almost 90 years from boyhood …
FIND OUT MOREFirst published in 1979, A Shetland Pattern Book became a global bestseller, with numerous reprints and revisions. Since the last edition went out of print in the early 1990s it …
First published in 1979, A Shetland Pattern Book became a global bestseller, with numerous reprints and revisions. Since the last edition went out of print in the early 1990s it …
FIND OUT MOREAlec arrived on Britain’s most inaccessible inhabited island of Foula at a critical time, the last cattle had been sold, the shop was due to close and several young people …
Alec arrived on Britain’s most inaccessible inhabited island of Foula at a critical time, the last cattle had been sold, the shop was due to close and several young people …
FIND OUT MOREA History of the Shetland Hand Knitting Industry 1600-1950 First published 1995. This facsimile edition first published 2021. This book traces the history of the Shetland hand knitting industry from …
A History of the Shetland Hand Knitting Industry 1600-1950 First published 1995. This facsimile edition first published 2021. This book traces the history of the Shetland hand knitting industry from …
FIND OUT MOREPAPERBACK EDITION Spanning decades as well as the seasons, thirty well known figures of the local bird scene share what Shetland’s birds mean to them and recount their best days. …
PAPERBACK EDITION Spanning decades as well as the seasons, thirty well known figures of the local bird scene share what Shetland’s birds mean to them and recount their best days. …
FIND OUT MORELerwick born author and local historian, Douglas M. Sinclair, is well-known for his detailed and informative writing about Old Lerwick. In this publication however, he proves to be a witty …
Lerwick born author and local historian, Douglas M. Sinclair, is well-known for his detailed and informative writing about Old Lerwick. In this publication however, he proves to be a witty …
FIND OUT MOREThe popular view is that Shetland’s graceful double-ended boats are direct descendants of the Viking longship. This unbroken linking of the Shetland boat to the Norse era was fuelled by …
The popular view is that Shetland’s graceful double-ended boats are direct descendants of the Viking longship. This unbroken linking of the Shetland boat to the Norse era was fuelled by …
FIND OUT MOREGrottie-Buckie lives alone in his little old house with only the company of mouse Tirli-Wirli, with whom he shares his food and conversation. Tirli-Wirli feels sorry for Grottie-Buckie, who has …
Grottie-Buckie lives alone in his little old house with only the company of mouse Tirli-Wirli, with whom he shares his food and conversation. Tirli-Wirli feels sorry for Grottie-Buckie, who has …
FIND OUT MOREFollowing the huge success of Volume One, the Shetland Guild of Spinners, Knitters, Weavers and Dyers are back with 12 new designs. Patterns range from peerie projects to full size …
Following the huge success of Volume One, the Shetland Guild of Spinners, Knitters, Weavers and Dyers are back with 12 new designs. Patterns range from peerie projects to full size …
FIND OUT MOREIn the hungry 1840s, the town of Lerwick is struggling with massive social problems, and Kirstie Jamieson, widow, is trying to feed three children. Like the town she lives in, …
In the hungry 1840s, the town of Lerwick is struggling with massive social problems, and Kirstie Jamieson, widow, is trying to feed three children. Like the town she lives in, …
FIND OUT MOREFollowing on from 1914 Peace and War. Extracts from the Shetland Times. Compiled by Gordon Johnston Paperback 236 pages …
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FIND OUT MOREA Shetland Knitter’s Notebook is the companion volume to the bestselling A Shetland Pattern Book. First published in 1991, it contains more words and pictures from Mary Smith and photographs …
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FIND OUT MOREJames Pottinger’s travels from his birthplace in a croft house in pre-war Burra have taken him full circle and he is “home” again, after a career in engineering, the merchant …
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FIND OUT MORESkerries residents have expressed a deep desire for fixed links – and strongly believe there would be huge benefits in a tunnel between Whalsay and the Mainland.
READ FULL STORYThe financial challenges at UHI Shetland are likely to see its Lerwick campus close as it focuses its operations in Scalloway.
READ FULL STORYA man whose mobility was seriously impacted by an accident years ago is attempting to row the distance from Lerwick to Aberdeen for charity.
Ritchie Pitt has set himself the goal of rowing 222 miles on an indoor rowing machine over three months for Ability Shetland.
The charity has supported Pitt in the years following his accident, and he said they had been “paramount in my recovery”.
“They allow me to participate in many activities I never thought I would be able to do again,” Pitt said.
“These include fencing, going to Eshaness, sailing on the Swan, kayaking and manymore.
“I want to raise money so they can continue their great work. I aim to row the distance from Lerwick to Aberdeen on a rowing machine in three months.
“Any contribution will be greatly appreciated.”
Ability Shetland is a charity that supports the efforts of disabled people to realise their full potential in all areas of life.
You can donate to the fundraiser by going to https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ritchie
Four fire appliances are continuing to battle a heather fire near Girlsta loch.
Scottish Fire and Rescue said they were called to the scene at around 9.55am.
As of 12.30pm, fire crews from Lerwick, Sandwick, Brae and Walls were in attendance.
No further details were provided by Scottish Fire and Rescue.
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APPOINTMENT OF NON-EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER Lerwick Harbour is the principal commercial port for Shetland and a key component in the islands’ economy. The management, maintenance…
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We have a number of vacancies for various hours at locations throughout Shetland. Jobs on offer this week include… You can also follow us on…
In today’s (Friday, 3rd May) edition of The Shetland Times:
The 42nd Shetland Folk Festival has got under way in great fashion today.
Musicians gathered for the launch event this afternoon (Thursday), with an array of concerts planned over the coming days.
Norwegian ban Gangar added a bit of folk, rock and metal at the opening, and were joined by The Fretless with Madeleine Roger and the Tenement Jazz Band, tipped to be one of the star acts of the event.
There are 15 visiting acts joining local performers in entertaining the crowds all over Shetland.
Concerts tonight take place in Lerwick – Da Big Kirk Concert, the Legion and Mareel – and at Hamnavoe and Vidlin.
Dar Mlodziezy has left Lerwick after three days of welcoming visitors.
READ FULL STORYSSE has withdrawn their application to close the Kergord to Sandwater road for over two months after being accused of creating “absolute mayhem”.
READ FULL STORYLerwick has been bustling with tourists after two cruise ships called on one of the busiest days of the bumper season so far.
READ FULL STORYThe Shetland Wool Week patron for 2024 has been named today (Fri) at a launch event held at the Shetland Museum and Archives.
In a break from tradition, this year’s patron accolade has been presented to Addie and Margaret Doull from Islesburgh Farm in Northmavine, and their family, in recognition of their dedication to the Shetland Flock Book and commitment to preserving and championing the highest-quality Shetland wool.
The keenly awaited hat pattern, which is synonymous with the launch of the patron was also released.
This year’s hat has been designed by Addie and Margaret’s daughter, Anne, and takes inspiration from the family’s Flock Book roots and the location of their farm and is called the ‘Islesburgh Toorie’.
Shetland Wool Week is delighted to shine a spotlight on the Doull family and to celebrate Shetland oo, the product on which Shetland Wool Week is built. The Doulls are frequently invited to judge shows across the UK, drawing on their expertise in sheep and wool evaluation.
As avid knitters, Margaret, and more recently, Anne, produce exceptional garments of the highest quality too, winning prizes both locally and nationally. Margaret, in particular, is renowned for her hand-knitted Shetland lace.
Anne said: “It’s an honour for the family to be asked to be patrons of this year’s Shetland Wool Week. I’m extremely proud for mam and dad to be recognised for their work with the Shetland Flock Book, which works to preserve and promote the native breed, and it’s something that all the family is committed to.
“We have been farming at Islesburgh, Northmavine, since 1970. The whole family, and Addie’s brother Kenny are involved with the farm and crofts, all helping each other to get the work done.”
The Islesburgh toorie, which is named after the family farm, features a distinctive Shetland Ram motif, a tribute to the family involvement with the Shetland Flock Book.
The inclusion of the print of the wave lace pattern celebrates Margaret’s skilful knitted lace. The colourways are inspired by the many natural shades of their Shetland flock and the heather filled hills and sunset views from the farm.
Hazel Sutherland, chief executive of Shetland Amenity Trust, which manages the event, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the Doulls have agreed to take on the mantle of Wool Week patron. Our outgoing patron, Alison Rendall, has done a sterling job for us and I would like to sincerely thank her for the commitment she gave to the role.
“Her beautiful Buggiflooer Beanie was a fantastic celebration of Shetland’s natural world, and it inspired many folk to attempt fair isle knitting for the first time and experiment with colour. We’re looking forward to sharing more of the Doull family story and we wish them all the very best for what I’m sure will be a very busy year ahead.”
The Islesburgh Toorie is available in three different colourways using Shetland yarn from Jamieson’s of Shetland; Jamieson & Smith; and Uradale Yarns.
The hat pattern is available to download from the Shetland Wool Week website for £1 and is also available as a printed version for £2 from the Shetland Museum and local wool shops.
Turns out even puffins like splashing in puddles.
This image by Kiera Munro has been shared by Sumburgh Head Lighthouse.
Passengers aboard the ferry to Skerries were left rubbing their eyes in disbelief after spotting the Easter bunny yesterday (Sunday).
The elusive rabbit was seen waving to the ferry from the Grunay pier as he made his Easter rounds.
And the ferry crew reported adults and children had been left agog at the unexpected sighting, with one said to have declared it as “like something out of a storybook”.
The Easter bunny produced a sign wishing everyone a “Happy Easter”, leaving behind a trail of smiles in his wake.
Self-catering apartment situated 3 miles south of Lerwick. Finished and furnished to a high standard with two en-suite bedrooms each with a king-sized bed, ample storage and smart TV. Fully…
Beautifully converted church in the picturesque village of Walls, approximately 40 minutes drive from Lerwick. Spectacular open-plan living/dining/kitchen area featuring church windows and oak staircase to upper balcony. Overlooking the…
Comfortable family-run B&B/Guest House in Fetlar, the 'Garden of Shetland'…
Ideally situated for the many attractions of the South Mainland our campsite has panoramic views, a peaceful secluded garden, and it's a short walk to Levenwick beach and dramatic rocky…
A warm, friendly welcome, quiet location, near loch and beautiful award-winning beach. Great for walks. Ideal for seals, otters and bird watching. Six miles from Ulsta ferry, 5 miles to…
Perched above the waters of Burrafirth Voe, this former Boatman's House will capture a peerie bit of your heart. With two double bedrooms and an indoor 'bunk house' sleeping fou…
The first cruise ship of what is hoped to be another record season arrived into Lerwick yesterday (Saturday).
Ambassador’s Ambition arrived on an 11-day Easter tour of the British isles, leaving from and returning to London Tilbury.
She is the first of 149 cruise ships booked to come to Shetland between now and mid-November, with roughly 130,000 passengers due to arrive.
There are also 11 maiden calls expected this year, including the largest yet to visit – the MSC Virtuosa in May – which has a capacity of between 4,000 and 6,000 passengers.
Crowds of hundreds turned up to watch the procession led by Guizer Jarl Daniel Johnson and the galley burning in Brae last night (Friday)
It’s now down to the big burn in Delting.
Guizer Jarl Daniel Johnson, who is Hakon Galinn for the day, will be preparing for the procession and burning of the galley.
Daniel, who was nominated onto the committee by his uncle Stuart Robertson, lives in Muckle Roe with his wife Karen and their two children, Mitchell, 8, and five-year-old Ada. His children joins him in a squad of 45.
Do kids have too much free time outside of school term? Are parents driven to distraction? Or do school pupils need quality time away from the classroom?
These are just some of the points to be raised at this month’s Althing debate – “the school year is too short”.
Speaking for the motion is Caroline Henderson and Joe Smith. Against is Chris Horrix and Barbara Dinnage.
The debate is due to take place on 16th March at the Lerwick Town Hall.
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