PODCAST: Charlie Gifford – Lighthouse keeper

In this week’s Shetland Times

In today’s (Friday, 21st November) edition of The Shetland Times:

• EXCLUSIVE: Power station to continue until 2026.
• Port closures risked by staff shortages.
• Drug couriers jailed after £100k cannabis find.
• Tourist centre staff praised after hub’s closure.
• Dental practice blames NHS for service scale-back.
• NorthLink “crisis” shot down by operator.
• Swan returns after mast maintenance.
• Read all the latest agricultural news in Landwise
• SPORT: Swimmers break hundreds of personal best times.
• SPORT: Report of Valkyries’ win as rugby team secures sixth league title in a row.

Museum cafe closes

The museum cafe is closing due to staff shortages, Shetland Amenity Trust has announced.

Hay’s Dock by the Dowry – operated by Beervana Ltd – is shutting its doors after finding it impossible to secure necessary workers.

It comes two-and-a-half years after an arrangement between the trust and Beervana was launched.

The trust says a mutual end of tenancy has now been reached between both parties.

The partnership had a shared vision of offering visitors both a casual daytime option and a formal evening experience.

However, recent challenges within the hospitality sector have changed the landscape considerably, with Beervana making the difficult decision to cease operations at the Hay’s Dock location.  

Stuart Fox from The Dowry said: “While we’re disappointed to close the Hay’s Dock café and restaurant due to ongoing staffing issues, this decision allows us to focus on exciting plans we have to improve our offering at The Dowry, and we look forward to continuing to welcome our customers on ‘da street’. 

“We have really enjoyed our time at Hay’s Dock, and would like to thank everyone at Shetland Amenity Trust for giving us the opportunity to run the venue over the past two and half years.”

Shetland Amenity Trust said in a statement: “We are saddened that the arrangement with Beervana has come to an end but fully understand the reasons behind the decision. 

“We will take some time to explore options for the space to ensure that visitors to Shetland Museum and Archives can enjoy some light refreshments. 

“Meanwhile we wish Stuart and the team at The Dowry every future success.”

Storm Bert to cause disruption on NorthLink ferries

Passengers on the NorthLink ferries this weekend can expect disruption across all services this weekend, with storm Bert forecast to batter the isles.

The operator issued a warning today (Thursday) ahead of adverse weather over Saturday and Sunday’s sailings.

The Met Office has warned of wind speeds as high as 69mph during the early hours of Sunday morning.