Tourism job is above all others for Morton

Broadcaster Tom Morton has been appointed Unst’s tourism development officer for six months and has spoken of his excitement at the prospect of developing the island as a year-round destination.

“Unst is the ultimate Shetland destination,” he said. “It is the northernmost landmass in the UK, the island above all others, and offers a fantastic range of attractions: More, and arguably more spectacular, Viking sites than anywhere else; Hermaness, Muckle Flugga, the wildlife, geology, beaches, cliffs and a phenomenal range of local arts and crafts.

“Not to mention a brewery, a distillery, the stunning Boat Haven and local people’s legendary hospitality.”

Gordon Thomson of the local development company Unst Partnership Ltd said the organisation was delighted at Mr Morton’s appointment.

“We look forward to Tom making a significant contribution to the development of tourism in Unst,” he said. “ We think he has a range of skills which could bring major benefits to the island’s economy.”

Northmavine-based Mr Morton has for the past two years worked on a number of projects for Promote Shetland and until recently edited the monthly magazine Shetland Life. He starts at the beginning of next month.

Mr Morton plans to meet with local people and to hear their hopes, concerns and ideas for developing Unst’s tourism industry. And to share some of his own.

“I want to be available and accountable to the people of Unst for what I do, and I’m sure folk have many brilliant ideas that we can work on together. Anyone can contact me from now on by email on unstnorthernmost@gmail.com.”

Mr Morton will continue to broadcast his BBC Radio Scotland shows on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.