Local News

John OGroat News

Thurso plea for affordable rents at new high school community complex

Grassroots sports and arts groups should not be “priced out” of using Thurso High after its current base is replaced by a new campus.

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John OGroat News

MSP calls for High Life Highland to review decision to withdraw leisure lifeline for disabled

The move has meant some users are facing a 450 per cent increase to access HLH-run facilities.

John OGroat News

‘The Groat taught me how to proofread’ – Wick-born writer releases a new novel and remembers working at the paper in the 1960s

Dorothy Miller, who writes under the pen-name Dorothy Stewart, has just released her latest murder mystery novel, ‘In Plain Sight’.

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John OGroat News

PICTURES: ‘Enthusiasm and excitement’ for the ENABLE Caithness mid-summer buffet dance

The voluntary-run charity, which supports adults with learning disabilities, held the event at the Norseman Hotel.

John OGroat News

Caithness Councillor Willie Mackay embroiled in jailed rapist getting to keep taxi operator licence

Source reveal reason behind the decision and claims officials could have acted earlier.

John OGroat News

‘A golden goose to benefit from’: Thurso workers village could be built by next summer

The company behind plans to build temporary housing in Thurso for up to 500 incoming power line workers has confirmed the scheme remains live.

John OGroat News

PICTURES: First-time success for Bowermadden cattle exhibitor at Canisbay Show

A Bowermadden cattle exhibitor took the top honour at this year’s Canisbay Show.

John OGroat News

Search begins for new CEO to lead major Caithness mental health service

Could you lead the charity behind Wick's Discovery College? Centred Scotland begins its search for a CEO.

John OGroat News

PICTURES: Historic Faroese fishing smack 'Westward Ho!' makes emotional return to Wick after 30 years

The historic and beautifully preserved Faroese fishing smack Westward Ho! is berthed at Wick harbour and welcomes visitors to come on board.

John OGroat News

Housing estates ‘missing out’ on repairs over Thurso potholes ‘safety issue’

The parlous condition of many of the roads in Thurso’s Pennyland scheme has been spotlighted by the town’s community councillors.

John OGroat News

Caithness-Orkney ferry firm in bid for new shoreside building for passengers and staff

Passengers using a key ferry service between Caithness and Orkney could benefit from new waiting areas and other facilities which are being planned.

John OGroat News

Highland MSPs use ‘Great British Energy - Nuclear’ report to call for new Dounreay plant

That is despite refuses to reconsider its block on new atomic energy projects.

John OGroat News

Wick volunteers to join forces to spruce-up town ahead of gala week

Community-minded volunteers in Wick will be giving the town a spruce-up next week ahead of Wick Gala Week.

John OGroat News

Gaelic culture to shine at Highland-wide Blas Festival

The festival, which has showcased Gaelic language, music and culture since 2004, will take place throughout the Highlands from September 4-12.

John OGroat News

Caithness nail artist features in New York Times World Cup coverage

While Scotland’s World Cup journey has come to an end, a touch of Caithness creativity has left a lasting impression on the global stage.

John OGroat News

Heading south? Caithness travellers asked for views on new Inverness Park and Ride

Tired of finding Inverness parking after driving from Caithness to catch a bus south? Highland Council wants your input.

John OGroat News

Exploring the hidden corners of Orkney’s small isles - from golden beaches to Dead Wife’s Geo

OUT AND ABOUT WITH RALPH: Escaping the throngs of another cruise ship docked at Kirkwall, a short ferry trip can open up a whole new world

John OGroat News

UK Government nuclear study identifying ‘high potential’ of Dounreay welcomed by Far North MP

Caithness MP Jamie Stone has welcomed a UK Government study naming Dounreay as an area with “high potential” for new nuclear development.

John OGroat News

Wick tourist attraction celebrates the end of term with free entry for kids

Wick Heritage Museum has announced that it will not be charging an entrance fee for children during the school holidays.

John OGroat News

PICTURES: Surprise pup poppet proving to be a 'little madam' at Caithness seal rescue centre

A sanctuary for sick seals in Caithness has more hungry mouths to feed with a recent influx of pups – can you help?