Work begins on Brae energy hub

Work has begun on the new Brae rural energy hub – marking a major milestone in the project.

Local company RG Construction, led by Robbie Gray, has been appointed as the main contractor.

They have begun transforming the Brae Youth & Community Centre with insulation, new heating, solar and batteries creating a warm, energy efficient facility.

Previous activities at the Brae Youth and Community Centre will continue once re-opened in summer, and the energy hub will be a new addition, supporting the community in reducing energy costs and carbon emissions.

The renovation of the BYCC started this month and is due for completion in August.

The refurbished building will improve the existing facilities at the BYCC and add in co-working spaces, an information centre for energy efficiency, electric vehicle charging stations, a community café and facilities for a car club and e-bike rentals.

Robbie Gray, managing director of RG Construction expressed enthusiasm for the project: “We are
excited to be part of this transformative initiative. Our team and valued sub-contractors are committed to delivering a high-quality renovation that will serve as a cornerstone for Shetland’s journey to Net Zero.”

Crucially, the Brae Rural Energy Hub CIC will be led by a community board, ensuring local voices and
needs are at the forefront of its operations. The hub is actively seeking new directors to join its team.

SIC launches mobile phones in schools consultation

The council is seeking views on the use of mobile phones in schools.

Parents, guardians teachers and pupils have been asked to complete a survey after the SIC sent out information on the consultation.

The engagement with key stakeholders aims to gather a wide range of perspectives on this topic and will also include in-person discussions with young people.

It is hoped to create balanced and effective guidance for the use of mobile phones in schools, which supports educational outcomes and promotes the health, safety and well-being of children, young people and staff. 

Education and families committee chairman Davie Sandison said this was a “significant topic” which affected the daily lives of children, young people and staff.

“It is essential that we balance the views of all members of our school communities, alongside emerging research in this area, to develop guidance that is fair, practical and beneficial for everyone,” Mr Sandison said.

He encouraged anyone with an interest in the issue to make their voices heard.

More information on the consultation can be found on the SIC website and anyone who wishes to contribute to the discussion can email education.socialservices@shetland.gov.uk.

Responses must be submitted by before 5pm on Sunday 30th March.

Councillors told to ‘bite the bullet’ and make unpopular decisions to get spending back on track

The SIC’s finances no longer add up, councillors fear, with borrowing and spending spiralling out of control.

Bail refused again for man accused of theft, threatening behaviour and two assaults

A 36-year-old man charged with theft, threatening behaviour and two assaults has been remanded in custody following his second court appearance.

Man appears in court accused of driving while more than five times over the limit

A 37-year-old man has appeared in court charged with driving while more than five times over the legal limit.

Murray Mannall, of Gremmasgaet, Lerwick, appeared in the town’s sheriff court this morning.

Mannal is accused of driving in Gremista Brae with 129 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath yesterday (Sunday). The legal limit is 22 microgrammes.

The case has been continued without plea, until Mannall can seek legal advice.

Sheriff Ian Cruickshank granted bail but demanded the seizure of the car and has restricted Mannall from driving in the meantime.

Guizer Jarl visits Cunningsburgh primary

Guizer Jarl Michael Farmer was welcomed to his old stomping ground by bairns and teachers at Cunningsburgh Primary School.

This is part of his visitations before the light up and burning this evening.

Headmaster Mervyn Clark made a roll call of past pupils who are part of today’s festivities.

The Up-Helly-A’ Song was sung followed by the Beatles’ Help by the Jarl squad. Primaries one and two had written a special version of Oasis’ Wonderwall called “Wonder Jarl”.

At dinner time, the Guizer Jarl and his squad are due to have their official pictures taken at Sumburgh Hotel before going to Dunrossness Primary School.

Car thief stripped off in futile bid to evade police

A 23-year-old man who stole and crashed a car in Lerwick – also took off his clothes during a police chase in a bid to evade detection.

KT Tunstall rocks necklace made by isles jeweller 

An isles jeweller was “really blyde” after an international superstar wore one of her creations on The One Show.

Edinburgh singer-songwriter KT Tunstall, known for hits like Suddenly I See, wore a necklace made by isles jeweller Karlin Anderson on the BBC programme on Tuesday evening.

“I was really blyde to get a message from KT Tunstall yesterday saying she was wearing my Flight Necklace on The One Show,” Ms Anderson told The Shetland Times.

The necklace is part of Ms Anderson’s Wings Collection – inspired by the idea of finding “strength and hope” in difficult times.

Ms Anderson said she has always had a “huge amount of respect” for Ms Tunstall both as an artist and as a person.

“She’s been doing her thing for years and is absolutely brilliant at it.

“She’s a strong woman and a fantastic advocate for others, always championing those coming up behind her.”

Read the full story in tomorrow’s Shetland Times.