Local News

John OGroat News

No ‘Beast from the East’ says Wick weather watcher

A local weather pundit wishes to calm local fears over the return of a weather system like the notorious ‘Beast from the East’ in 2018.

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John OGroat News

Wick man’s failure to show up for sentencing over death threats ‘entirely unsurprising’

A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a Wick man following his no-show at the town's sheriff court on Monday.

John OGroat News

Highland Council agrees ‘immoral’ 8% rent hike despite child poverty warnings

Amid opposition to tenants charged for ‘historic’ debt consuming 40% of rental income and for new house building.

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John OGroat News

Alleged cannabis farm update: Four more arrests made at former Wick High School

After three arrests were reported at the site of an alleged cannabis farm in Wick, Police Scotland said it has taken four more men into custody.

John OGroat News

‘A very special road trip’: Caithness and Sutherland crews make their way to Monte Fest at Stirling Castle

Far north classic car enthusiasts marked the start of the Monte Carlo Classique/Historique Rally by driving from John O’Groats to Stirling Castle.

John OGroat News

PICTURES: Fire crews join police investigating site of alleged cannabis farm at former Wick High School

The operation appears to have ramped up at the site of an alleged cannabis farm in Wick, with at least 10 vehicles observed there yesterday.

John OGroat News

Young British Farming Awards return with expanded categories for 2026

Young farmers across the far north are being encouraged to put themselves forward, or to nominate others, for the Young British Farming Awards.

John OGroat News

New Sheriff Principal appointed for Grampian and Highland and Islands

A new Sheriff Principal has been appointed for the north of Scotland.

John OGroat News

Weather warning for snow covering most of the Highlands

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for snow covering most of the Highlands tomorrow and Wednesday.

John OGroat News

Your chance to read the first-ever edition of the John O’Groat Journal from 1836

February 2 marks exactly 190 years since the first edition of the John O’Groat Journal went on sale.

John OGroat News

‘Disappointing response’ to call for feedback on £100m Thurso scheme

More people are being encouraged to give their feedback on the ambitious plans in the pipeline to redevelop the Thurso High site.

John OGroat News

Thurso’s ‘Caithness Violinist’ hits high note as double finalist in national wedding awards

A solo violinist from Thurso has put Caithness on the map after being the only rep from the county at a prestigious wedding awards event.

John OGroat News

Highland freshwater conservation project wins national Green Apple Award

A freshwater conservation project that has delivered both habitat and heritage benefits has been recognised with a national Green Apple Award.

John OGroat News

’E Groat marks 190 years as the voice of Caithness

The John O’Groat Journal celebrates 190 years of giving the county of Caithness and its people a voice this Monday.

John OGroat News

Call for farmers and crofters to join bird count as ‘custodians of the countryside’

There is less than a week to go until the start of the annual census of farmland birds and land managers in the far north are being urged to sign up.

John OGroat News

NATO allies stand shoulder to shoulder, Teachers face fresh challenges and History repeating itself?

YOUR VIEWS: Readers of the John O’Groat Journal and Caithness Courier share their opinions in our letters section

John OGroat News

Plea for phone connection at Freswick, Swimming club plan for Wick and Rotary aid for dyslexia project

LOOKING BACK: News from the John O’Groat Journal of yesteryear

John OGroat News

Scrabster braes work part of ‘extensive programme’ of improvements on A9 in north

A series of improvements and safeguards is being put in place on the trunk road network in the north of Scotland, according to operator BEAR Scotland.

John OGroat News

CAMEO showcase brings emerging Caithness musicians to the stage

A packed crowd and roaring applause filled the Central Bar in Thurso, as a live music showcase took place, writes Maisie Swart.

John OGroat News

Staying grounded: Free mental health support for young Caithness farmers

Young farmers and crofters in Caithness are being invited to join a free mental health training pilot.