The Shetland Times Live

Harbour Street blocked as emergency services attend house fire

November 5, 2024 | 9.23pm

A road has been blocked off by emergency services attending a house fire in Lerwick.

Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and rescue are at the scene in the town’s Harbour Street, where they have blocked access to pedestrians and traffic.

Scottish Fire and Rescue said three appliances (two from Lerwick and one from Scalloway) were called out after 8pm this evening (Tuesday), with firemen wearing breathing apparatus. Two hosereel jets and a thermal image camera are also in use.

This is an ongoing story and updates will follow as they happen.

Anderson High School marks Remembrance with 1,800 woolly poppies

November 5, 2024 | 2.43pm

Anderson High School in Lerwick has decorated its commemorative stone cairn with a blanket of woollen poppies as a symbol of remembrance for those who have died in conflict.

Roughly 1,800 poppies — some knitted, some crocheted and some made from the base of plastic bottles — have been draped  over the cairn.

The design was partly inspired by a 2014 display “cascading” over the walls and moat of the Tower of London.

Headteacher Robin Calder called the display “striking” and emphasised the importance of teaching children about historical wars.

“Remembrance is an important topic for pupils, to understand the impact that past conflicts had in Shetland and elsewhere,” Mr Calder said. 

Children, staff and parents came together to knit the poppies while younger children made paper cut-outs for classroom windows.

Ability Shetland also sent in poppies from their social club made from the bases of plastic bottles painted red.

Children will spend the week involved in a number of other remembrance activities: from remembrance-themed lessons, to breaktime fundraisers for Poppy Scotland, the Scottish armed forces charity. Students will also write remembrance “postcards” for former pupils who have died in conflict.

The school will host a small ceremony at 11am on Armistice Day, Monday 11th November, at the school’s war memorial, which lists all former pupils of the Anderson Educational Institute who died in the First and Second World Wars. 

Subscribe
Subscription image

Subscribe to Our Print and Digital Editions

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Already a subscriber?
Log in below.

New partnership helps those affected by cancer

November 5, 2024 | 2.27pm

A new partnership aims to improve support offered to those affected by cancer.

The Improving the Cancer Journey (IJC) service follows joint working between NHS Shetland and Macmillan Cancer Support.

The service offers adults affected by cancer, including families, friends and carers, the chance to have a conversation with a dedicated link worker to discuss needs and help access tailored information and support.

It aims to provide a personable and flexible service to help people affected by cancer get the support they need – whether financial, emotional, medical or practical.

The service provides additional help to people as part of a network of support from other services, third sector and clinical care teams.

The Macmillan-funded service is being delivered by Shetland Community Connections, and is commissioned by NHS Shetland for the next five-and-a-half years.

VIEW ALL
  • Wild Shetland Through the Seasons

    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 …

    £36.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • The Shetland Bus

    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 …

    £8.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • Knitting By the Fireside and on the Hillside

    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 …

    £9.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • Best Days with Shetland's Birds - Paperback

    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. …

    £17.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • From Honky-Tonks to Helicopters

    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 …

    £7.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • Shetland's Boats: Origin, evolution and use

    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 …

    £40
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • Grottie-Buckie an Tirli-Wirli

    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 …

    £7.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • Fair Isle Designs from Shetland Knitters Volume 2

    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 …

    £21.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • Kirstie's Witnesses

    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, …

    £8.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    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 MORE
  • 1915 War

    Following on from 1914 Peace and War. Extracts from the Shetland Times. Compiled by Gordon Johnston Paperback 236 pages …

    £19.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    Following on from 1914 Peace and War. Extracts from the Shetland Times. Compiled by Gordon Johnston Paperback 236 pages …

    FIND OUT MORE
  • A Shetland Knitter's Notebook

    A 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 …

    £10.99
    FIND OUT MORE

    A 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 …

    FIND OUT MORE

WATCH: Otter film to air on National Geographic

November 5, 2024 | 7.00am

An emotionally powerful film showcasing the relationship between a man and an otter is getting its UK premiere this month.

Billy and Molly: an otter love story will air on National Geographic on Friday, 15th November.

The production highlights the story of a wild otter in need of help when it washes up on a jetty.

Billy Mail, his wife Susan, and their devoted sheepdog Jade find themselves with a unique new member of their family.

When Molly first arrives at the Mail residence, Billy and Susan take it upon themselves to care for the ill otter, providing Billy with a new sense of purpose.

It comes after the film won three awards at the Wildscreen Panda Awards last month.

Urgent question on budget implications for farming communities

November 4, 2024 | 4.24pm

Shetland’s MP has led an urgent question in the House of Commons on the implication’s of last week’s budget on farming communities.

Alistair Carmichael has spoken after farmers voiced concerns over Labour’s first budget in 14 years.

Last week Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that combined business and agricultural assets worth more than £1m would be taxed at 20 per cent from April 2026.

Previously, Agricultural Property Relief (APR) meant that farmland and associated buildings could be passed to future generations free of charge.

Now, Mr Carmichael has highlighted past undertakings by the Defra (Department for environment, food and rural affairs) secretary that he would not raise inheritance tax on farmers.

Mr Carmichael has also called for the government to publish data behind several claims made by ministers in support of the tax changes.

Mr Carmichael, who also chairs the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, noted concerns about the removal of the ring fence for devolved farm funding, and questioned the compatibility of the budget with the government’s stated aim of increasing food security.

“Building up strong and resilient farming communities should be a goal for anyone who cares about our environment, our food security and our economy,” said Mr Carmichael.”

  • Stroke support group marks first 20 years

    A long-running group that supports stroke victims has marked its first 20 years. Shetland Stroke Support Group was established in 2004 to provide practical support…

    October 19, 2024 | 4.35pm
  • NorthLink warns of ferry disruption

    Tomorrow’s southbound NorthLink sailing will leave Lerwick two hours earlier than scheduled. The ferry operator has advised customers of the move ahead of possible weather-related…

    October 19, 2024 | 12.51pm
VIEW ALL
  • Cold Store Forklift Driver
    FULL TIME

    Cold Store Forklift Driver

    Full-Time We are recruiting for a Forklift Driver to work in our busy Cold Store.  This is a full-time position at our Gremista, Lerwick factory,…

    November 1, 2024 | 6.00am
  • Various vacancies at Shetland Islands Council
    FULL TIME

    Various vacancies at Shetland Islands Council

    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…

    November 1, 2024 | 6.00am
  • Various vessel vacancies at Shetland Islands Council
    FULL TIME

    Various vessel vacancies at Shetland Islands Council

    Mate – Yell Based Vessels£42,784.02 – £44,079.04 per annumSalary shown is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance, Unsocial Allowance and Contracted Overtime Payment On-line Ref No:…

    November 1, 2024 | 6.00am
  • Knitting Machine Operator with Jamiesons
    FULL TIME

    Knitting Machine Operator with Jamiesons

    KNITTING MACHINE OPERATOR – Full Time – 40hrs per week (8am-5pm) Join the Jamieson’s Knitwear team in their busy department at the Sandness Mill. This…

    October 18, 2024 | 6.00am
  • Youth workers on street patrols following Harrison Square assault
    FULL TIME

    Youth workers on street patrols following Harrison Square assault

    Youth workers will be patrolling the streets following an assault which led to five young people being charged.

    September 13, 2024 | 12.12pm
VIEW ALL
  • Hjaltland Housing TO RENT

    Hjaltland Housing

    HAS AVAILABLE TO REGISTERED APPLICANTS Two bedroom house in Guddataing, Burra  We have a two bedroom, three person, semi-detached, single storey house available to rent. …

    November 1, 2024 | 6.00am
  • Former Scatsta Airport Buildings TO RENT

    Former Scatsta Airport Buildings

    Shetland Islands Council FORMER AIRPORT BUILDINGS SCATSTA, BRAE, ZE2 9QP FOR LEASE Offers over £350,000 per annum + indexation are invited for lease To arrange…

    October 25, 2024 | 6.00am

Your Customers Could Be Watching

Advertise With Us

Attract new customers and gain more business

Craft fair a huge draw

November 2, 2024 | 6.10pm

This year’s Clickimin Craft Fair has drawn hundreds through the doors.

Organisers say 800 visitors came to enjoy the flagship arts and craft event yesterday alone, with a record number of 111 exhibitors attending – so many that a handful even had to be squeezed into the main foyer.

It comes as a great way for Jennifer Tait, who is stepping down as secretary after this year’s event, to end her time in the role.

“It’s going fantastic,” she told The Shetland Times, adding there had been “loads and loads” of people attending.

“It was super busy last night – we had 800 folk through the door just in the two and a half hours that we were open.

“We’ve got so many crafters here and so many local folk that want to come along and support them.

“For a lot of folk, this is the start of their Christmas shopping. They come here specifically because they want to get Christmas presents or – for a lot of folk – they want to get some nice local treats for themselves.”

She said there were new exhibitors this year, including new artists doing original acrylics, new print-makers and one who had made work by up-cycling furniture.

The big interest from exhibitors, she said, had been “really exciting”.

“There are 106 stands, but there are 111 exhibitors. I think this is the most number of folk we’ve ever managed to squeeze into the Clickimin. We’ve even got four stands up in the main foyer.”

Nicole Simpson of the Scalloway-based Rosy Step was one of those first-time exhibitors, and was on hand with stationery cards and bespoke invites.

“It’s very exciting. It’s really good, and lots of positive comments.”

Also attending for the first time was 18-year-old Sparrow Howard, who was reaping the rewards after being named a student of the year in her National Certificate Art and Design course at the college.

The prize was to have a stall at the craft fair, and Sparrow was eager to tap into the demand for Christmas presents, with a range of wooden decorations, and prints developed from a painting of Bain’s Beach in Lerwick.

Despite the busy scene, there was plenty of opportunity to relax – not least from watching Anne Barron paint a beautiful picture of a raven against a blue moon background.

“He’s just a very handsome gentleman,” she said.

Just as impressive was the moon, which changes when viewed from different angles.

“I’m trying to put some detail in now, but a lot of people have been debating whether I should finish him or not. He kind of has a look. There are some amazing paintings where it fades away.”

Suze Walker of Island Botanicals was showcasing a range of herbal teas, medicinal vinegars and elderberry syrups.

She has been running the business for the last “five or six years”, but has worked as a herbalist for much longer.

Over the years she has developed an interest in providing remedies made from garden plants.

Suzanne Shearer of Soapery 21 was on hand, too, with a selection of soaps, balms and soaks – all made by Suzanne herself and blended with her own essential oils.

“They’re all natural, plant-based, and I make it all from scratch,” she said.

“It’s been a really lovely fair so far,” added Suzanne, who was exhibiting at the Clickimin for the third time.

“It’s been really busy, and really sociable. It’s really lovely to meet customers as well. I sell online, and I sell into shops, but it’s really lovely when you get to sell face to face to people as well.”

Share Image
Logo

Share Your Photos, Videos and Stories With Us

VIEW ALL

Fire at Gremista grid supply point

November 1, 2024 | 9.27am

A fire broke out this morning (Friday) at the Gremista grid supply point (GSP).

Two fire engines attended the Lower Blackhill Industrial Estate at around 8.30am.

SSEN Transmission said it was a small fire affecting a mobile compressor and was quickly brought under control with no one hurt.

The company said construction work was able to start up again later in the morning and the network supply was unaffected.

Once completed next year, the GSP will allow Shetland’s energy network to connect with the mainland National Grid for the first time, reducing its reliance on the diesel fuelled Lerwick Power Station.

SSEN is assessing the damage caused by the fire but said there was no effect on the overall construction timetable.


logo

Get Latest News in Your Inbox

Join the The Shetland Times mailing list to get one daily email update at midday on what's happening in Shetland.