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.”

Weather latest

The council has advised some schools will remain closed today, while there is also disruption to school bus services.

Aith Junior High School and Happyhansel Primary School are closed, although all other schools are remaining open.

There are some cancellations to school transport in the North and West Mainland.  Parents are asked to check the school bus voicebank for the latest transport updates on 01595 745743.  

The public bus voicebank also has the latest on public bus services on 01595 745744.

Parents and carers should make decisions about whether it is safe to travel, based on local road conditions and the distance to school. 

The Met Office has a yellow warning of snow and Ice for the North of Scotland, including Shetland, which is valid until 10am. 

Conditions will remain cold and wintry across Shetland for the next couple of days.