NorthLink warns of weather delays

NorthLink is warning of potential disruption in services over the weekend.

The Hjaltland is due to leave Aberdeen for Orkney and Shetland tomorrow. But NorthLink says her arrival at Kirkwall and Lerwick may be subject to delays of up to an hour and a half.

Meanwhile, Hrossey’s south-bound sailing is under review, with the possibility of an earlier departure.

Sunday will see the Hjaltland leave Lerwick an hour earlier than planned, with 6pm the new departure time.

Her arrival in Aberdeen may be subject to a two hour delay.

Changes are also being made to Pentland Firth crossings.

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.”

Two graduation ceremonies to take place

UHI Shetland will host two graduation ceremonies for the first time this year.

Organisers say unprecedented numbers of graduates are due to be presented with their hard-earned qualifications on 6th December.

But Mareel offers insufficient seating to accommodate all graduates and guests in a single ceremony.

Professor Derek McGhee, Dean of Research and Innovation at the University of the Highlands and Islands, will be joining UHI Shetland staff and students to celebrate their achievements.

Former director of children’s services, Helen Budge, will be guest speaker.

Keith Massey, graduate and recipient of a “New Graduate Award” from the Society of Scottish Artists, will deliver a speech reflecting on his learning journey.