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.

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NorthLink warns passengers of disruption

Passengers can expect delays of up to two hours to arrivals on board both NorthLink ferries tomorrow (Sunday).

Adverse weather has forced the operator to warn customers of the longer sailings before arriving at the terminals in both Lerwick and Aberdeen.

Both the northbound and southbound journeys are believed to be affected by conditions, with a 90 per cent chance of rain and winds as high as 53 mph overnight.

The southbound Hjlatland will depart the town as scheduled at 7pm tonight, with the northbound Hrossey expected to leave the Granite City at 5pm.

Active schools celebrates 20th anniversary

Fun activity sessions will be organised next week to mark the 20th anniversary of the active schools programme in Shetland.

The council says staff and volunteers have worked with many local sports clubs, schools, parents and community groups in the last two decades to deliver sport and physical activity opportunities. 

These have included extra-curricular activities, school competitions and summer programmes, giving young people the chance to be active and to get involved.

Activities on offer next week are mainly aimed at primary-aged pupils, including some family sessions, and will vary across locations and by age groups. 

The range of activities will include badminton, hockey, netball, pickleball, table tennis, fencing, boccia and more. 

Information about these sessions is being sent out by schools, directly to parents and guardians.

Active schools manager Louise Jamieson, who also marks 20 years of working in active schools, said: “I’m proud of the impact that the active schools team has had in our local communities over the last 20 years, which is a significant milestone. 

“In that time, the team have introduced thousands of children to new activities and opportunities. 

“We’re looking forward to seeing plenty of folk at our fun activities next week to mark our special anniversary.”

Chairman of the education and families committee Davie Sandison added: “The active schools programme is hugely valued here in the Shetland community, and the large numbers of children benefitting from its various activities is testament to its success. 

“I’d like to congratulate and thank our active schools coordinators past and present for their dedication to our community, its young people and their health and wellbeing.”