Local News

John OGroat News

‘You could be eligible’: Caithness CAB to host Pension Credit clinic

An open-door clinic is being held in Thurso next month to help ensure people of pension age are not missing out on an important benefit.

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John OGroat News

Worries over Thurso workers’ site aired as community councillor backs plans

Further concern has been voiced about the impact on Thurso of the prospective influx of up to 500 power line workers next year.

John OGroat News

Driver three times limit when he hit car outside Wick shop

An early evening shopping trip led to a Wick motorist being nabbed for drink-driving.

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John OGroat News

Caithness man faces eight counts of rape among string of sex and other charges

A far north racing tipster appeared in private at Wick Sheriff Court on Wednesday to face eight counts of rape.

John OGroat News

UK Budget to sap millions from Highland private and public sectors through National Insurance

Chancellor Rachel Reeves also promises £820 million more for Scotland.

John OGroat News

Controversial Banniskirk Hub approved as council says ‘hands are tied’ over substation plans

The decision was made today during the north planning meeting, where the opposition and applicant put their respective cases across to members.

John OGroat News

Pretty in pink: Watten wakes up to stunning pink double rainbow

A rare phenomenon was witnessed in Watten this morning when a distinctly pink double rainbow followed an intense red sky.

John OGroat News

Windfarm fault caused power outage in parts of Caithness

A power blackout which affected parts of Caithness and the whole of Orkney was caused by an issue at a windfarm.

John OGroat News

Elves ready to lend a helping hand with 2025 Caithness FM Toy Appeal

The Caithness FM elves are again ready to do their bit for the annual toy appeal – by helping to make sure donations go to those most in need.

John OGroat News

Caithness councillor told to leave controversial public meeting on Banniskirk Hub

The North Caithness and Thurso councillor was ask to leave a public meeting where a major planning application close to his ward was being discussed.

John OGroat News

SSEN-backed temporary accommodation in Thurso is no solution to Highland housing crisis

Holyrood Notebook by Edward Mountain

John OGroat News

75mph winds to hit Highlands, Met Office warns

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for northern and western parts of the Highlands for Thursday and Friday.

John OGroat News

Caithness Quilters put on display to mark 25th anniversary

Caithness Quilters celebrated their 25th anniversary with a beautiful display of quilts and other items made by members.

John OGroat News

Campaign group warns of ‘renewable energy onslaught’ facing Caithness

The Save Caithness campaign says the north of Scotland is in danger of being turned into “an energy production facility for the benefit of others”.

John OGroat News

SSEN Transmission becomes first company to sign up to the Highland Social Value Charter

The Charter contains a series of social value expectations that the Highland Council has for companies investing in renewable energy infrastructure.

John OGroat News

Award for Caithness student who is ‘an inspiring role model for women in engineering’

A young woman from Caithness has won an annual prize celebrating outstanding female engineering students at UHI.

John OGroat News

Freemasons’ funding boost for Thurso action group

Thurso Beach and Town Initiative has received a funding boost courtesy of Caithness Freemasons, with the presentation of a cheque for £350.

John OGroat News

Chamber chief says Banniskirk Hub can bring ‘long-term benefits for Caithness’

Banniskirk Hub can bring “long-term benefits for Caithness and beyond”, the chief executive of North Highland Chamber of Commerce has said.

John OGroat News

Over 250 objections, but Highland councillors will be asked to back Banniskirk Hub

Plans for Banniskirk Hub have attracted 252 objections with just one public comment in support – but councillors are being asked to approve it.

John OGroat News

The unassuming Thurso lane that has a history of its own

Thurso’s Heritage by A Thirsa Loon