CAITHNESS.ORG HEADLINES ARCHIVE ::  July 2007

Halkirk Highland Games -

Halkirk Games 61 - 72                       73 - 84

March To The Games - Short Film
This year the Scots Guard Association Pipe Band played for the march to the field from Bridge Street, Halkirk

 

 

Halkirk Games 37 - 48        49 - 60

Halkirk Games 1 - 12              13 - 24                                         25 - 36

RFA Mounts Bay L3008  - One of The Newest Boats In The Flotilla Visited Wick Today

 

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service (RFA) Mounts Bay L3008 was host to invited guests at Wick today.  The party went out on Wick Lifeboat and met Captain Rick Taylor whose mother and other relatives come from Wick.  Captain Taylor said he knows Wick very well.  the RFA Mounts Bay is one of the newest ships in the Flotilla and at 16,000 full load is much larger and more capable and twice the capacity of the ones being replaced. The ship was commissioned in September 2006.  She is built to Class 1 Passenger specifications and can carry an Embarked Military Force of 356 fully equipped troops although in emergencies this can be increased to 700. RFA Mounts Bay has aviation capability to transport and operate two Merlin size or one Chinnook helicopters and can refuel them on deck and in-flight and can also enable operations by MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.  The design includes a dock able to have boats of various sizes dock right inside the vessel.  Two upper deck cranes can ramps can load and unload huge lifts of up to 30 tonnes each. Landing craft can run right inside her and be loaded with troops and equipment very fast with more craft coming on in turn. RFA Mounts Bay is equipped with steerable electric powered propulsers and as a result does not have traditional rudders like conventional ships.  She is highly manoeuvrable and can turn extremely quickly for ship her size. RFA ships are support vessels for the royal Navy and the crew are merchant seamen employed by the Ministry of Defence.  However due to the fact they may operate in war zones such in the Falklands they have the capacity to be fitted with a number of weapons systems for protection. The ship boasts state of the art galleys, kitchens, recreation, fitness suite and also a state of the art hospital with everything that might be needed for emergencies with a ward split for male and female patients.  Captain Taylor presented shields with the emblem of the Mounts Bay to Bill Fernie for Wick, Malcolm Bremner for the Harbour and Colin Richard for the Lifeboat.  Paul Cariss the deputy Lord Lieutenant was standing in for Anne Dunnet who was accompanying Prince Charles today thanked the Captain for his hospitality and the chance to see the vessel that is going on to Leith.  A few lucky young sea cadets from Wick were taken on board to join the ship for the trip to Leith.

RFA Mounts Bay Arrived At Wick Bay This Morning
Photos from Eann Plowman taken from Papigoe

 

 

 

Funday At Ormlie With Music And Fancy Dress
Ormlie Community association are holding a Funday this Saturday 4th August 2pm to 4pm at the Ormlie Community Centre.  A few highlights from the day are Live music from Diesel 'n' Dust - Fancy Dress competition - Baking stall, Bottle stall, Handmade stall, Raffle, Hot dogs - Get along and give them some support

Wick Gala Photos - All Now In
Wick Gala 241 - 252    253 - 264                   265 - 276                   277 - The End

 

Wick Gala 205 - 216    217 - 228                   229 - 240

Wick Gala 156 - 168    169 - 180                        181 - 192                   193 - 204

Wick Gala 121 - 132    133 - 144                         145 - 156

Wick Gala 73 - 84        85 - 96                      97 - 108                      109 - 120

Wick Gala 37 - 48                                         49 - 60                              61 - 72

Wick Gala 1 - 12                 13 - 24                             25 - 36

Crowning Of Gala Queen Ceremony Switched
To Market Square, Wick due To Soft Ground At Riverside

Following advice on safety issues of erecting the stage on the ground at riverside that has become saturated in the past few days the decision was taken to change the location to Market Square.  Floats and foot walkers will still begin at the usual place.  The route of the gala procession will be as in previous years and not as had been recently posted on a new route.

Mail Deliveries May Be Affected By Strike Action Today

Games and Gala Day In Caithness Today - Halkirk Games And Wick Gala
Its a very busy day in Caithness today with the two main events being the Halkirk Highland Games starting with the march to the field at Noon and wick Gala starting at the Riverside at 6.00pm for viewing the floats, crowning of the gala queen and then on to the big parade and this year with ceilidh music in the Market Square.  Halkirk Games and Wick Gala make for just about the busiest days of the year in both towns and this year is likely to be no different as both events are bigger than ever.

Great Jazz Night On The Cards For The Derek Mosedale Memorial Gig In Thurso
Saturday 4th August at Y Not in Thurso

Wick heet de Dansers Schermer welkom

Wick had a treat today with a troupe of dancers from the Netherlands in the Market Square. the lively music and colourful period costumes brightened up the day that had just had a heavy downpour of rain at the start of the performance.  Luckily the sun came out and the rest of the performance was in brilliant sunshine. The costumes are typical of the fashion worn around 1850-1875. The gentlemen wear knee breeches with long white socks, top hat and tails, gold or silver watch on a matching chain as a decoration. The ladies wear a rich coloured costume, the most impressive aspect is the head dress, jewellery worn in and around a lace cap, and it is all authentic. The lace caps are hand-made, each with a different pattern; they are dated from 1850-1900. Information from the Schermer Dansers web site.  The dancers then went on to dance at the Riverside Home and Caberfeidh Court for the residents.  They will attend a ceilidh dance organised by "Taste of Tartan" this evening in the Royal Hotel, Thurso.  Keeping busy they will dance in the Precinct, Thurso at 10.00am on Saturday and then at Halkirk Highland Games in the afternoon.  They have had a busy day today as they also visited the Wick Heritage Museum and the Pulteneytown Distillery.
See The Schermer Dansers in action today in Wick - A Short Film

A Few Locals Join In With the Schermer Dansers In Wick

 

Regina Caelis Arrived At Wick Harbour Last Night
Thanks for George Campbell for these photos of the yacht "Regina Caelis arriving at wick harbour last night. the yacht has been to Wick previously as we had photos sent in to us by Martin Duffy almost two years ago when she arrived on 10th August 2005
The 100ft Regina Caelis, which was built in 1936 and is registered in Gibralter.  The ship had extensive work carried out on here at Buckie in 2005 before she sailed to Wick that year.  Regina Caelis is latin and seems to mean "Queen of the Heavens" but perhaps a latin scholar can give more accurate translation?  Photos of the Regina Caelis are all over the web proving what an attraction for photographers she is.  Click Here to see her at Buckie on 24 July

Alistair Weathers The Storm - Lybster 2007 Golf Championship
The recent club championship final at Lybster Golf Club was played in weather conditions which made golf extremely difficult. In spite of the driving wind and rain, the hardy spectators who braved the elements were treated to some fine golf. John Munro, currently enjoying a good run of form, could not repeat the feats of previous rounds and match the performance of Alistair Young, who went on to win the Cormack Cup and become 2007 Club Champion. The handicap championship was competed for on the following day. Once again, John Munro had to settle for second place, as Alan Larnach, the 2006 club champion, beat him to win the Portland Cup.

Wick Gala Week - Is It A Gala, Festival or a Carnival?  YES To All Three 28July - 4 August
The range of events run during Wick Gala Week has slowly been creeping up over the years and 2007 sees possibly the biggest range of events -
3 One Act Comedies by Wick Players - Monday 30th July Tickets £5 from Polteney News, Dempster St.
After the Floats - In Market Square - the Liz Mackenzie Ceilidh Band & Eyes Of The North Band
Check out the full programme for what is on each day

Holiday Club At Pulteneytown Parish Church Set For Another Run
6th - 12th August 
Registration for the holiday club this year is on Saturday 4th August 10.00 - 12.00 Noon.  The club runs for a week from9.45am - 12.15pm and the cost for the week is £5.  For Hugh school pupils there "Breakout" meetings in the evenings and several afternoons.  the theme of the week is "Waste Watchers" and activities will be along environmental themes but as always fun is the name of the game.

De Schermer Dansers - Market Square Wick Today - Friday 27 July 3.00pm
Dutch dance group. 29 performers in colourful costumes performing national dances
Also in The Precinct, Thurso at 10.00am on Saturday 28th July and then at Halkirk Highland Games in the afternoon.

Northern Lighthouse Board New ship NLV Pharos At Scrabster
Thanks to Gordon Douglas for sending this photo of the new ship NLV Pharos commissioned in March this year for the Northern Lighthouse Board seen here at Scrabster Harbour. See more photos of the MV Pharos
NLV PHAROS was built by Gdansk Stocznia Remontowa S.A. yard in Gdansk, Poland and was specifically designed and built for the unique work carried out by the Northern Lighthouse Board. The ship was officially named and launched in February 2006, by HRH The Princess Royal and the Board accepted the ship from the shipyard in March 2007. This is the tenth vessel operated by the Northern Lighthouse Board to be named PHAROS, the first being in 1799. The ship has an overall length of 84.20 metres and breadth of 16.50 metres. The level of sophistication in its equipment is second to none and boasts dynamic positioning, a large aft working deck area, integrated bridge management system and forward helicopter flight deck as PHAROS also supports land-based operations by helicopter or small high speed water craft for operations in remote areas. All of which will meet the high technical standards demanded by the Lighthouse Board for the exacting operations conducted around our coast. The ship will work mainly in Scottish and Manx waters (the area covered by the Board) servicing over 200 automatic lighthouses, 157 buoys and 40 beacons.

Dutch Dance Troupe To Entertain At Halkirk Highland Games
Schermer Dansers from the Netherlands will make a great splash of colour when they perform at this year's Halkirk Highland Games on Saturday (March to the field begins at 12 Noon).  The Schermer Dansers consist of a large troupe in costumes from around 1850 to 1875. The dancers will perform in Wick and Thurso on other days but will make big show of it at the games.  the pipe band this year will be the Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Association.  All the usual competitions are being held with the heavies in evidence all day.  children's races all have money prizes from the running to the sack races.  A full programme followed by the Pipe Band in Bridge Street, Halkirk at 7.30pm and dance in the marquee at10.00pm with music by Remix. Caithness.org will be there.

New Farm Breeds Section Growing - Latest Addtitions

Our new photos galleries to build a collection showing the different breeds and examples of the superb animals to be found on farms in the north of Scotland is already receiving photos as you can see by these fine examples.  We are looking for any photos with information that will help let everyone see the range of breeds around in our area from Shetland, Orkney, Caithness, Sutherland Ross-shire and Inverness-shire.  If anyone would like to contribute a photo email it to bill@caithness.org and show the world what superb animals are reared here.  Farm Breeds In The North Of Scotland Index

Marathon man Mark is a charity champion - Sunderland Echo
Another John O'Groats To Landsend Run but this guy is doing a marathon run every day all the way. Walking, hopping, pushing beds, playing the drums, dressed up in all type of funny costumes - there seems no end to folk going one way or the other the whole length of the country for charity.

Do You Have Questions About The Health Service - Now's Your chance To Get Answers
Shona Robison MSP Minister for Public Health Comes North Virtually
Public Invited To Take Part In Annual Review
For the first time members of the public are being given the opportunity to submit written questions about NHS services, which will be answered on the day by the Health Board Chair or the Minister. NHS Highland's performance will be reviewed in public during a visit by Shona Robison the Minister for Public Health on 21st August.  The minister will be in Inverness but a number of centres including Caithness General Hospital will have a video link to enable members of the public to ask questions.  They have asked for questions to be sent in writing by email in advance if possible and assure every one will be answered if not on the day then by follow up on the NHS Highland web site. So if you have question about services - for example maternity, waiting times, Migdale Hospital rebuild delays, the scanner at Caithness General, Lack of dentists to name but a few then get along and ask your question. - It's a first for the new government and they want to listen to go and ask. About Shona Robison MSP

Sold Out Edinburgh Festival Show Heads For Orkney and Banchory
Unfortunately the Sell-out show "Beowulf" is not coming to Caithness but it will have performance over in Orkney if you happen to be there or even make special trip over for this rare chance to see a performance of "Beowulf".  For the first time, this August Edinburgh International Festival takes a Festival show on a short tour around Scotland as part of an initiative from new Edinburgh International Festival artistic director Jonathan Mills. The Edinburgh International Festival hit Beowulf - the medieval epic story told by vocalist and performer Benjamin Bagby - will tour to Banchory on Friday 10 August and Orkney on Monday 13 August. This world famous epic may not be so close again so take your chance and head over to Orkney to catch it.

An Adventure For Children Is Coming To Wick - Book Your Tickets Right Away
Saturday 29th July - An t-Sireadh-@Eu-Comasach (Adventurers Unlimited) Children's Entertainment Riverside Children £2.50 (aged 8 and upwards) Adults £1 Meet at Boating Shed BOOK YOUR PLACE Tickets available from Blythswood Shop, Wick

Wick Man In Five Man Team For "24 HOURS" - 3 PEAKS Challenge Team For Charity
As meningitis lies particularly close to home, Eric and Irene Macaulay and their family Stephen, Ross and Suzanne of March Road Wick have organised a fund raising event in support of the Meningitis Research Foundation. Ross and four of his colleagues will attempt to run the 3 Peaks (ie Ben Nevis, highest in Scotland, Mt. Snowdon, highest in Wales and Scafell Pike, highest in England) and to complete all three within a 24 hour period. This is not part of a bigger organised event. All five of them have arranged leave for this, and will converge on Scotland from their present work locations in various parts of the world to do it (America, Brazil, New Zealand, France and England). They have one 24 hour period in which to do it, 11th/12thh August 2007.

Caithness Highland Gathering and Games Will Not Run This Year Due To Weather
The meeting which was to have taken place on Sunday at John O'Groats was cancelled due to the heavy rain overnight.  The committee have looked at longer range weather forecasts for suitable dates but dates that might have been used also have indications that they will be wet days.  Therefor the decision has been taken by the committee not to have the Gathering/Games this year.

New Events For Wick Gala Week - Don't Miss Gala Night This Saturday 28 July
Children's Disco To Follow Braehead Fancy Dress Tuesday 31 July
Braehead Fancy Dress 7.00pm followed by Children's Disco age limit 14.
Entry 50p but children in Fancy Dress get in FREE - Spot prizes, lucky dip and games.  Also a chocolate Fountain and refreshments
Deal Or No Deal - Assembly Rooms, Wick Friday 3 August 7.00pm

Compere Philip Coghill from Halkirk will take participants through a local version of the TV Game show to win up to £200.  Get along and be given a number that will be chosen at random to enter the game.  Admission £3 Children and concs £2 (wine and shortbread at the interval)
Antique Road Show and Auction - Assembly Rooms, Wick Saturday 4th August
Valuations Given 1.00 - 4.00pm followed by Collectables Auction at 4.00pm - Valuations £1 per item Admission 50pence.  Get along and meet the experts.

Fat Sale At Dingwall Mart - 24 July 2007
Dingwall & Highland Marts Ltd., (July, 24th) sold 47 prime cattle and 208 prime sheep.
Note - Caithness.org has now agreed to run Mart reports from Dingwall and Highland Marts and we hope these are of interest to farmers in the north.
New Farm Animals Section - Now Set Up
We will also be setting up a section to build up sample photos of the various breeds of animals sheep, cattle, pigs, goats etc that are reared in Caithness Sutherland and Ross-shire.  If anyone has photos of particular breeds and would like to help us building these new galleries please email them to bill@caithness.org  Acknowledgements will be added to each photo stating the photographer and farm etc as requested by whoever sends the photo.  Alternatively photos can be left without this information.  If anyone has photos of animals from earlier periods that are no longer reared we will add this to historical gallery in the same section.  Prize winning animal photos will also have a separate section if these are received.  The far north rears some of the best animals fed on grass in the country and we hope this will help promote north of Scotland livestock to a wider public.  Farming Index

Murkle WRI Baking Flat Out For The Halkirk Highland Games On Saturday
Murkle WRI ladies have started baking like mad for the teas at Halkirk Games on Saturday.  All profits will go to their chosen charity this year which is a new ECG machine for the Rosebank wing of Caithness General Hospital costing approx £3000. They  also have Suzanne Mackenzie doing guess the bottle of whisky and a lucky person will receive a bottle of the chosen whisky. You will all be glad to know they have several to give away so take look in at the WRI tent for tea and cakes at some point during the games and see if you can win one of their bottles of whisky.  Halkirk Highland Games - the biggest in the north.
2006 Halkirk Games Photos  Find links to earlier Halkirk Games HERE and others on the Halkirk Games web site.

Sandside House Gardens Article In "The English Garden" Magazine
Caithness has some lovely large gardens and this article on Sandside House Garden recently appeared in "The English Garden" magazine.  Sandside House Gardens is open once again on 29th July 2.00 - 5.00pm with money raised going to charities.  Work is always going on in a garden and new plants and the season make for an ever changing scene so why not get along and see how Sandside House Garden is looking this year. Also open 12th August for the SSPCA when there will be an interesting Falconry display.
 

2008 Events - Notice To Committees and Organisers
It is never too early to let us know about Galas, Shows and Highland Games as many folk from the UK and around the world are planning trips and want to know these dates to help plan their visits. We get requests all the time asking for the dates of next years events and they often come in right after this years event.  Thurso Town Improvements Association are first this year to get their 2008 Gala dates inIf your group know the dates for 2008 send them in now.  Emails details of Caithness and Sutherland events to bill@caithness.org  And don't forget to add all of your dates to our What's On Calendar using the submission form.

Dorothy Budge Memorial Bowling Competition
The Dorothy Budge Memorial Bowling Competition was played on Sat 21st July at the Rosebank Bowling green. Dorothy was a keen bowler and member of the Rosebank Bowling Club. When she passed away, her family decided to mark her memory by sponsoring an annual competition in her name. Players names were picked “out of the hat” to make up the teams of two.
 

"Seven Decent Cod In Less Than An Hour" Tony Banks At WorldSeafishng.com
From a fishing forum - Tony comments on a couple of days fishing the Pentland Firth. Also on Fish Pennsylvania - compliments of Google Alerts for those who wonder where we get all these items from.

Seadrift Centre At Dunnet Officially Opened
Seadrift, the visitor centre at Dunnet that focuses on the natural heritage of the north coast of Caithness was officially opened to the public on Monday 23rd July by Councillor Drew Hendry, Highland Council's Chairman of Planning Environment and Development Committee. Managed by The Highland Council's Planning and Development Service, "Seadrift" is the new name for the recently refurbished visitor centre. The centre has seen a complete makeover with £100,000 funding from The Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, LEADER+ and HIE Caithness and Sutherland. Located at Dunnet sands about one mile from the village of Dunnet, Seadrift visitor centre, is also used as a base for Highland Council's Rangers.

Viking Ventures At Melvich And Another Chance For Kids To Join In At Dunnet Forest
The Highland Council North Sutherland and Caithness countryside rangers, with help from volunteers held a joint Viking event - Viking Ventures - at Melvich, on Saturday 21 July. Nineteen people attended the event and had a great time partaking in the various themed challenges to win sections of Viking boat kits which were then assembled....There is another opportunity to join in the fun as the event is taking place again but this time in Caithness on Tuesday 7 August at Dunnet Forest. For further details and booking phone 01847 821531..........
Ranger Pages

Dounreay Bulletin Issue 8
Contents of this issue -

Geophysical Survey Being Conducted for Proposed New Low Level Waste Facilities
Council's New Top Team Visits Dounreay
UKAEA Responds to Analysis of 2007 Particle Consultation
NuSAC Visit to Dounreay
COMARE Reports on Beach Monitoring Equipment Trials
Tighter Controls to Prevent a Repeat of Incident
Chairman Designate for New CoRWM

Highland Council's New Top Team Visits Dounreay
Highland Council's new leadership team visited Dounreay on July 20 to see how Scotland's biggest nuclear clean-up project is changing the face of the north Highlands. Recently-elected convener Councillor Sandy Park was accompanied by the authority's new chief executive Alistair Dodds on a tour of the £2.9 billion project to decommission the fast reactor experiment. They met UKAEA site director Simon Middlemas and discussed ways of closer working between the two organisations as the clean-up moves forward at pace.

Royal Fleet Auxiliary "RFA Mounts Bay" To Anchor Off Wick - About 10.00am Tuesday 31st July
RFA Mounts Bay will be stopping off Wick as she travels to Leith on Tuesday 31st July.  She will be anchored about half a mile off of Wick for anyone who wants to get photos or take look. Bill Fernie has been invited to look round the ship wearing two hats as a councillor for Wick and to take photos for the web site so you will all get a closer look once the photos are ready.  More about Mounts Bay at Wikipedia
Mounts Bay moves to Fleet command - 28 September 2006

Red Cross send Scottish flood rescue team to Gloucestershire
A British Red Cross specialist flood relief and rescue team from the North of Scotland has been sent to Gloucestershire to help the thousands of people affected by the unprecedented and devastating floods across England in the past two weeks. The team of 10 Scottish volunteers and staff - from Inverness, Elgin, Kyle of Lochalsh and Aberdeen - arrived in Gloucester early this morning (Tuesday 24th July 2007) with four 4-wheel drive vehicles and two specialist flood relief rescue boats.
Red Cross Launch Flood Victims Appeal
Update - FLOOD APPEAL RAISES £300,000 IN FIRST HOUR

Mike Russell MSP Minister For Environment Invites You To A Public Meeting In Wick
Wednesday 25th July 6.30pm - 8.00pm Mackays Hotel
The new government at the Scottish Parliament may be on holiday but the SNP ministers are getting out to meet the people during the summer.  Mike Russell is bringing a team of senior officials to Wick and other places in Scotland.  (check HERE for other venues in Highland and Islands).  Mike Russell is keen to take questions and hear views within his portfolio which includes agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, rural development, forestry, environment, natural heritage, land reform, water quality and sustainable development.  So if you have some questions on the future of Caithness in any of these areas get along and ask your question.  To let the minister prepare more detailed answers email a question to him in advance to listeningtoscotland@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
The meeting will be chaired by Highland Council convenor Sandy Park.  This is a rare opportunity to put questions directly to a minister to find solutions to problems affecting Caithness and the north of Scotland. There will be representatives from councillors, community councils, voluntary sector and so on but this meeting is also about meeting the people.  We all know Caithness and Sutherland has many problems to sort out from Dounreay decommissioning, particles, Wind Farms, Environmental problems and so on relating to them as well as future employment.  Government departments potentially running down in Caithness such as the inland Revenue in Wick, Post offices, farming and fishery problems.  Get your questions ready but even if you only want to listen get along and show Caithness wants to have this minister on our side.  The minister is using up his summertime to come and see us so get along and show it was worth his while.

Winning Halkirk Netball Team Of 2007
It was a great netball season for the girls of the Halkirk School Netball Team. The photo shows Halkirk netball team with the Chic Lobban memorial trophy which they won for the west side of Caithness, and the Caithness Schools Cup they won against Castletown. They are from back left, Lauren Yuille, Laura Stewart, Joanne Armour, Jessica Dreaves, Eva Hymers and Chloe Mackenzie. Front from left Rachel Gunn and Shannon Eyers.  Well done girls.
Halkirk School

Is It A Twister?
This photo was taken by Angus Mackay on his way home last night.  The photo was taken from the Causewaymire looking towards Morven.  Did anyone else spot it?  Plenty of unseasonal weather for July this year.

 

 

Crimson Tide Play Skinandis, Thurso on Friday 27 July
Supporting Bands are "All Stitched Up" and "No Exit Wound"
"
Crimson Tide are a four piece rock band described as switching between soft gentle acoustics to brutal."  Yeah whatever.  But they are good.

 

 

Final Pigeon Race Of the Season For English Club Was From Thurso - Elimar Pigeons Norfolk & Suffolk
Oulton Broad's final race of the season was from Thurso,about 470 miles, with the NRCC when 6 members sent 38 birds which were liberated on the 15th July, after a one day holdover, at 6:15 into a West wind. There were no birds recorded on the day but all members managed to clock in on the second day. In 1st and 2nd, on 696 and 688, was our great club secretary Derek Bryant with two proven performing cocks. His first bird, '64, was a 2005 blue cock of Fauccineer lines while his second bird, '71, is a 2003 cheq cock of "Heinz 57" lines which among other prizes won at Perth. In 3rd, on 633, was Bob Sussams with a 2005 red hen of Kirkpatrick lines through Robbie Thompson."

Tractor Manages 839 Miles Landsend To John O'Groats On A Tank Of Biodeiesel - Farmers Weekly
A Derbyshire tractor dealer which set out to drive a 360hp Fendt 936 from Lands End to John O’ Groats in 24 hours on a single tank of biodiesel has achieved its aim – but only just.

 

 

Festival Of Flowers And Crafts Celebrating 85 Years Of WRI In Caithness
The Women's Rural Institute in Scotland is 90 years old and 85 years old in Caithness.  To celebrate these anniversaries the members of the various Caithness WRI are coming together for Festival of Flowers and Crafts at St Peters and St Andrews church in Thurso.  The event will be open Wednesday 1st - Saturday 4th August 10.00am - 4.00pm and additionally on two evenings Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd from 6.00pm - 8.00pm.  Entry is by donations only

Last Call For Entries For Its A Knockout Competition - Enter A Team
As part of Thurso Gala week, Thurso Town Improvement Association are organising an 'It's a knock out' event on Sunday the 5th of August 2007 at the Dammies, Thurso. We are inviting local organisations and businesses to enter teams to take part in this excellent funday event, along with raising funds for 3 local charities - TTIA, Thurso Football Club and Scallywags Nursery, Dunnet. The winning team will also have the opportunity to nominate £100 prize money to their chosen charity.

Extensive upgrade on danger road - BBC
Whilst we are on Helmsdale this item on the BBC confirms the £6 million upgrade of the A9 road north of Helmsdale will begin in August this year.

Newly Upgraded Web Site For Helmsdale  Helmsdale On Caithness.org  More Sutherland

First Minister Alex Salmond Unveils Emigrants Statue At Helmsdale

Today First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond MSP unveiled the "Emigrants" statue at Helmsdale. Alex Salmond said, "Today's unveiling of this remarkable new presence in the Highland environment marks an important moment for Scotland. The impulse to create this statue came from a desire to remember, but also to reconcile; to reflect on the past, but to draw on it for the future's strength." The statue was created by sculptor Gerald Laing for the Clearances Centre that was set up to find a way to commemorate all the people of the Highlands who were forced to leave Scotland.  The flags at the statue represent the countries where the emigrants mainly went - Canada, United States, Australia and New Zealand but there were many who went to other parts of the globe and a united nations flag is also flown.  A large group of people from many places as well as locally gathered for the ceremony. Professor Eric Richards from Flinders University, Adelaide spoke of the international contribution Scots had made to the world.  Eilidh Mackenzie from the Western Isles sang a haunting Gaelic song.  Another song was contributed by Rod Paterson from Dundee representing Lowland Scots many of whom were also forced to leave their homeland in times of adversity.  Denis MacLeod, Helmsdale formally handed over certificate of ownership to the Helmsdale Community accepted on their behalf by Edward Mackay.  Sutherland Schools Pipe Band then led a procession to the community centre for more music by Feis Chataibh.  Speakers at the centre included First Minister Alex Salmond and Dr Jim Hunter who has written several books on the clearances and Scots abroad.  Guests were then offered a superb buffet prepared in Helmsdale.  A very notable day.
Video Of Alex Salmond Speech and Unveiling of the Emigrants Statue
Video of Eilidh Mackenzie From Isle Of Lewis Singing "Teannaibh dluth is togaibh fonn"
Apologies from Bill for the shaky picture as he was holding an umbrella in one hand and the camera in the other.

 


 

Ousdale School
Another old school set of photos has been added to the Old Schools section thanks to Robert Chalmers.  The school at Ousdale is not seen from the road as it is set in a forestry plantation. The school was built in the mid nineteenth century.  The School closed in 1928.
Does anyone have old class photos from Ousdale? Perhaps it closed before photography? Old Caithness Schools Index

166th Caithness County Show 2007  - Photos Coming At Various Times All Day Today
To view all of the show photos START HERE    All County Show Photos Now In

457 - 468                 469 - 480                          481 - 492                   493 - 497

421 - 432                        433 - 444                         445 - 456

385 - 396                                         397 - 408                       409 - 420

349 - 360                      361 - 372                          373 - 384

313 - 324                                325 - 336                           337 - 348

277 - 288                                           289 - 300                               301 - 312

229 - 240                       241 - 252                     253 - 264                    265 - 276

181 - 192                   193 - 204                        205 - 216                    217 - 228

133 - 144                   145 - 156                   157 - 168                   169 - 180

97 - 108                                       109 - 120                   121 - 132

County Show 61 - 72                              73 - 84                         85 - 96

County Show 37 - 48                                                    49 - 60

County Show 1 - 12                   13 - 24                  25 - 36

Caithness Highland Gathering and Games At John O'Groats Today CANCELLED
Due to more heavy rain overnight the ground is water-logged and the organisers have decided to cancel the games due to have started at 1.00pm.

The Sunday Papers
Is it worth it? 10 Harbour Terrace, Wick, Caithness - Sunday Times
What it is: A large three-storey former tax office in downtown Wick, the most northerly town on the east coast of Britain and once the herring capital of the world. The 19th-century property, built in the town’s fishing heyday, was originally the home of the chief coastguard, and Robert Louis Stevenson stayed there when he sojourned in Wick as a trainee engineer in the 1860s. He later described it as “one of the meanest of man’s towns”. The stone building is laid out as offices, with four rooms, a reception area and a lavatory on the ground floor; more bathrooms on a mezzanine; five rooms and a kitchen on the first floor; and three rooms at the top. It retains many original features, including the central staircase and cornices. Wick is two hours’ drive from Inverness, or a 2½hr flight from London (not direct).
More details on the Georgeson Solicitors Web Site
This is a big land, Obi-Wan Who? - Sunday Times
They started at John O'Groats and this item lets you know how Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman are getting on in Africa.

"Old Wick" Is Fast Becoming "New Wick"

An area on the outskirts of Wick on the south side has long been known as "Old Wick".  But perhaps this will need a rethink in the very near future.  Wick may still be heading the unemployment black spots of highland but again can this remain the case for much longer.  New house building seems to be taking off at various places around Wick and not least at "Old Wick".  The site at Old Wick being developed by M M Miller is for up to 78 new homes and the surrounding area has already seen a slow build up of new houses.  And has anyone noticed the price rises in Wick house values?  How can this be you might ask?  what is going on?  Well quite lot actually...... Shops, Shops and maybe even more shops on the way. Harbour Developments - New pontoons the prelude to a new marina development  next year. Coming soon - New council offices  and redevelopment of Market Square High street site.  A new nuclear archive to be based at Wick airport (up to 20 new jobs).  More housing developments at Papigoe and other places.  Many individual houses being applied for and the planning department of the council in Caithness is seeing unprecedented numbers of planning applications now running at the highest levels ever.  The announcement about a new contract for the Wester yard with 70 new jobs for new pipelines for the Jura oil field can only add to the rush for more homes in the area.  "New Wick" may in a couple of years be bigger than "Old Wick".

Theft Of Money From Loch Watten Hotel
POLICE are investigating the theft of a quantity of money from within the Brown Trout Hotel, Watten between 19.57 and 23.40 on 19 July 2007. It is suspected that the perpetrator(s) of this crime gained entry through either the front or rear door of the hotel.

166th Caithness County Show At Wick Is Underway As Tent City Goes Up
One of the biggest Caithness county shows is taking place at Wick this weekend as the tents and stands were being erected today in glorious sunshine.  the big day is on Saturday but many things are already on display as everyone moves in on the site at Riverside, Wick and Westerseat farm.  An amazing hive of activity shows that these folk have been erecting the show site for a long time.  This afternoon (Friday 20th July) the early rounds of the show jumping events were underway. Over 1000 animals have been booked into the show this year making it one of the busiest years for the judges.  There is something for everyone from the young to the not so young and you don't need to be a farmer.   All the usual events from sheep shearing to sports for the children.  Cooking demonstrations pipe, band, Celebration of the horse display, vintage tractors, Children's Corner farm animals.  Lunches and teas on sale. Many more events and displays.  In the evening there is buffet dance in Mackays Hotel with music by Kait Bain.  Have a day out in Wick on Saturday and check out the 166th Caithness County Show.  check the town centre shops, restaurants and cafes.  Check out the offers at the Homebase complex.  Check out the offers at Tesco before you go home but have look at the smaller shops and you might be surprised at what you can find in Wick.  See you all there tomorrow........

A Gazzillion Quid On Offer To Voluntary Groups and Charities - See Today's Listing £££££...
Today's additions to the funding for charities page will make your eyes pop at what is available if your committee can get is act together and fill in the application forms.  There must be something for almost every group that has charitable status in the listing today. Of course competition for the grants is fierce but if you don't apply then you cannot get the money. Committee members should read today's additions to the page if you have project on hold or anew groups trying to set up.  If you are unsure what to put in your application or how to word it help is available at Caithness Voluntary Group where you can get more advice on what to say and how to go about it.  The money on offer in today's listing is probably the biggest sums we have ever shown and from many sources.  Note - You need to note the closing deadlines if there are any.

Dog Poisoning At Heathfield Road, Thurso
Police in Thurso are currently investigating a case of apparent dog poisoning with in the Heathfield Road area of Thurso.

Marine Mammal Medics Training With Assynt Mountain Rescue Team
Four members of the Caithness Marine Mammal Medics (BDMLR) joined Assynt Mountain Rescue Team for a morning of training at Latheronwheel recently. Members of the team where shown how to set up a fixed rope, use a climbing harness, a descender, and climb a steep slope with a load.


 

Landlord set to resist community buy-out proposal - The Northern Times
Crofting tenants and local residents are working towards a community buy-out under land reform legislation of the 2600-hectare Skerray Estate, located on a rocky promontory between Tongue and Bettyhill. But Lord Strathnaver of Sutherland Estates, whose mother, the 86-year-old Countess of Sutherland, lives at the House of Tongue, has warned he will resist any bid to take the ground under community ownership.
Scottish Community Land Network   HIE Community Land   Community Land Project Links
Who Owns Scotland   Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 Part 2 Community Right to Buy
Land Reform Act Help Web Site By Andy Wightman
Common Good Land In Scotland  - A Review and Critique
Rural Development Forestry Case Studies  
How A Community Can Buy Land Near To Them (The Process Explained)
More Land Issues Links

Who Is Trying To Do It In Caithness? Initiative At The Edge South East Caithness Development Group

Caithness Highland Gathering and Games John O'Groats
22 July 2007 - 1.00 - 5.30

Wick Gala 28 July - 4 August 2007
A Massive Programme of events for young and old this year. Some new events this year.
Note - Wick Gala is a week later this year than usual.

Dingwall & Highland Marts 4th Anniversary Show and Sale Of Store Cattle
Sold 1,384 store cattle in the Anniversary show and sale. The Judge, Mr Alan Turnbull of Meadowend, Clackmannan, chose a 510kg senior Limousin heifer from J Munro & Son, Invercharron, Ardgay, which realised £760 to D Morrison, No. 141 Burnside, Kinlochbervie as his Overall Champion in the Conanvet sponsored singles show. The Reserve Champion award went to a 600kg senior Limousin bullock from Gaich Farms, Lower Gaich, Dulnain Bridge, realising £810 to T H Stevenson & Sons, Balmacolly Farm, Bankfoot.
"Quality kinds from Caithness met a strong demand."  See prices...............

German Wire-Haired Pointer Enjoys Days Out In The Far North
This latest addition to the Pets Corner shows that this German Wire-Haired Pointer knows where to have a relaxing time visiting harbours and beaches in the north of Scotland.  He is seen here at Melvich Beach and Scrabster Harbour.  Ah well its a dogs life in Caithness.

Pets Corner

'The Loch of Mey Monster' Poem and Art Competition Exhibition at the County Show
An exhibition of the winners and all the entries will be on show at the County Show 21st July on; 'The Loch Of Mey Monster' stand, and there will be an opportunity to vote for your favourite work overall. The overall winner will have their work appear in the 3rd book in the 'Loch of Mey Monster' series!! Also on show day there will be auditions for primary age children to take part in recording 'The Loch of Mey Monster' song !
 

Caithness County Show - Saturday 21 July At Wick - Bigger Than Ever
This year the 166th Caithness County Show is being held at Westerseat, Wick. Always a popular venue due to its being right next to the town and this year looks like being no exception.  The sloping ground helps it keep relatively well drained compared to other places - a bonus in this very wet year. A huge entry of over 1000 animals are on the lists competing for the prizes.  The Show begins on Friday evening but the big day is on Saturday.
2006 County Show Photos  2005  2004  2003  2002

Sandside Estate Feature in Shooting Times & Country Magazine
An article on a shooting outing at Sandside estate appeared in the "Shooting Times & Country Magazine" on 28th June.  "Taking A Walk On the Sandside" by Shooting Times editor Camilla Clark describes a day at a shoot on Sandside speaking to keeper John Waters.
Shooting Times & Country Magazine        Sandside Estate
Take look round the beautiful gardens at Sandside on the open days with proceeds to two charities  for Crossroads on 29th July and SSPCA on 12th August.  Vintage and classic cars will also be on show outside the gardens.

Kite Cam Photos From Braehead, Wick

Kite Cam Index  These photos were taken today with a camera hung from a kite by Grant Golding and Elaine Fernie who were back in Caithness for a few days.  See another selection of these photos at their Flickr web pages

Highland Airports To Be Hit By Strike Action On Monday 30th July 2007
Talks today to avert industrial action by members of Unite at Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd have failed after the trades union rejected the company’s offer to go to conciliation and mediation with ACAS. Offers by the company’s senior management to address staff at all HIAL’s airports on the issue of pay and to work with the union on achieving greater flexibility in pay deals for future years were also rejected. Unite members will now stage 24 hours of industrial action on Monday 30 July and every subsequent Monday until resolution. This action will cause major disruption to air services in the region on 30 July which will effect circa 4,000 passengers. HIAL employs 320 members of staff across its 10 airports and head office at: Barra; Benbecula,; Campbeltown; Inverness; Islay; Kirkwall; Stornoway; Sumburgh; Tiree and Wick.

No rethink on wind-farm stance despite ’silent majority’ claim - National Wind Watch
Baillie Wind Farm Ltd for turbines at Stempster Hill and Bardnaheigh Hill
Item by Ian Grant published in the John O'Groat Journal and National Wind Watch web site
Community representatives in west Caithness have refused to rethink their opposition to a wind farm planned for Stempster. They deny they are out of step with local opinion and insist their stance would not preclude them seeking to maximise community benefits from the development were it to get the go-ahead. The chairman of Caithness West Community Council, Bill Brown, spoke out in response to a claim that the body was acting against the wishes of a “silent majority” in the area.
Wind & Alternative Energy Index  Highland Wind Farms So Far As At May 2007

Industrial Action Involving Highland Mental Health Officers
The Highland Council employs 41 Social Workers with a mental health qualification, who provide a Mental Health Officer service, including to the Mental Health Tribunal. In recognition of new duties required by The Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 which came in to effect on 5 October 2005, the Council approved a re-grading for 19 main grade MHO staff. This amounted to an extra £2,370 per year or £45 per week. The trade unions have made four requests, including one that all MHO qualified social workers should receive an extra £5,000 per year which they claim is in line with salaries paid by other Scottish local authorities. This request was rejected by the Council's Appeals Committee, who recognised that 19 main grade MHO staff had been given a salary increase of £2,370 before ruling that the grading issues relating to duties of promoted members of staff would be addressed through the job evaluation scheme........more

PLEAS FOR CASH AID FOR WICK TOWN CENTRE
Labour's Highlands and Islands regional MSP, Peter Peacock has raised the issue of Wick centre in the Scottish Parliament. The North MSP sought an assurance from the Scottish Executive that it would consider a small towns regeneration fund as a priority for extra funding and consider giving local authorities more powers to deal with empty buildings and dereliction and, where necessary, compulsory purchase of key buildings to secure town centre improvements. Town centre trusts could act as a vehicle for environmental improvements, that many small towns seek.

Folk and Jazz At The Mill Theatre, Thurso with Landermason
Northumbrian based duo Landermason will be performing at Thurso's Mill Theatre next week as part of their extensive UK tour, promoting their latest album release, 'The Reason'.  The song-writing duo of Fiona Lander (vocals, piano, saxophone, whistles, clarinet and recorder) and Paul Mason (vocals & guitars) have developed a unique sound displaying their undoubted talents as musicians. The music they perform is mostly self penned and is an impressive mix of contemporary folk and jazz. Uplifting melodies and superb harmonies feature with thoughtfully crafted songs, along with skilful arrangements that showcase the various instruments played. You can catch Landermason at 8.00pm on Thursday 26th July at the Mill Theatre, Thurso.

The Daftenders -Kirsten and Nicola Cycle Landsend to John O'Groats
Raising Funds For BBC Children In Need
Kirsten Dallas (Kirsten's Mum, Patsy is from Caithness) and Nicola Whyte will be cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise at least £2000 for BBC Children in Need. Kirsten, whose just 16 years old, attends Thetford Grammar School and has been awarded a share in the school’s Peter Large Travel Scholarship. Kirsten has decided to use the money to help cover the costs of undertaking this big adventure, therefore ensuring that all sponsorship money raised can go to BBC Children in Need. The marathon begins on 23rd July and Kirsten will be cycling with Nicola Whyte........

Only Days Left to Get Tickets For The Liam Henderson Memorial Football Match Raffle
the now annual football match played alternately each year at Wick or Newmacher is this year being played in Wick on Saturday 21st July.  Lots of activity surrounds the football match with players and supporters travelling from Newmacher.  Junior football competitions and fun at the Bignold Park before the big game in the afternoon.  The huge raffle held alongside this growing fundraiser for sports groups in Wick and Newmacher will be drawn on Saturday night 21st July.  There will also be an auction for a list of prizes.  If you have not yet got your tickets for the raffle get them soon. Tickets will be available on the street in Wick n Saturday morning

Mark Your Calendar for the Great Perseid Meteor Shower In August
If you are interested in seeing showers of meteors then mark your calendar to watch out in August particularly on 12/13th when the night sky will be moon free.  If all the present cloud has cleared away Caithness skies make for very good views due top the lack of light pollution.

Latest Additions To Bees, Bugs and Butterflies Found In Caithness
Once again Dunnet forest is proving to be a great place to see a wide range of beautiful moths and butterflies.  Gordon Mackie sends these - Meadow Brown Butterfly, Magpie Moth and Frillary Butterfly.  Several others were spotted including the Common Blue but they were too quick to get a photo.

Many Localised Sudden Downpours Affecting Parts of Highland
WEATHER/ROAD CONDITIONS - NORTHERN CONSTABULARY AREA

From 1400 hours this date - Tuesday 17 JULY 2007 - Northern Constabulary have received numerous reports of flooding throughout the mainland force area. It appears that there have been very localised, sudden downpours of rain causing serious flooding in certain areas.
Areas affected have included: The A832 road between its junction with the A835 road (Gorstan junction) and Achnasheen, near to Lochluichart village. Easter Ross was particularly badly affected with flooding and minor road collapses in and around the Ardross, Struie and Edderton areas - Part of the roadway near to Achandounie, Ardross, collapsed. Various parts of the roadway on the B9176 Struie road - leading from Ardross to Easter Fearn, near Edderton, The A836 road from Easter Fearn through Edderton to the Dornoch Bridge roundabout on the A9 has also been badly affected by water and a minor landslide. The main A9 Inverness to Perth road at that part known as the Slochd is also currently affected. Currently vehicles are being escorted through flood water by Police. This is causing slight tailbacks/delays for drivers.
more details.............

Viking Ventures! At Melvich Beach - Saturday 21st July 10.30am.
Book In Advance
and Meet At Melvich Beach car park.
Have a great fun day as two teams compete in the various challenges to win sections of 2 Viking long boats and let’s see which of the teams can assemble their boat first. Events include physical and mental challenges all with a Viking theme. All materials are provided but bring along your thinking caps and lots of enthusiasm. Will best suit kids from 8 – 14 yrs (any younger kids must be accompanied by an adult) £2 per child. This event is run as a joint event with the North Sutherland ranger, Caithness rangers and volunteers.

Latest Caithness Police Requests For Information
Broken Window - Albyn Court Thurso
Witnesses Sought For Assault At Castletown Road/Mountpleasant Road Area, Thurso

Course Gives Overview of Whole Seafood Industry
A unique training course that educates participants in all aspects of the seafood industry is to be piloted in Inverness in August. A small Highland training company, the Fish Industry Training Association (FITA), has partnered with fisheries colleges in several EU nations to develop a new opportunity that is a first for the UK: the Mare Nostrum Project. Its aim is to pilot learning modules that will form a short qualification in fisheries development. The one-week course will run from 20-24 August in the Highland capital.

Buy A Lettuce, Some Rocket And Support A Developing Project At Wick
A tiny project - HEAART - that could become larger offering employment to people with learning difficulties is attempting to prove it can work at the former Wellington Centre at the industrial estate, Wick  (not far from Tesco)  They have some vegetables growing for sale and are open Monday  - Thursday 10.00am - 4.00pm. The point is you can get the odd lettuce or other veg as it is ready but the main point is you can support this fledgling project to grow into something much larger offering support o people with a range of problems. Bill Fernie was up for look today and there are one or two things ready mainly salad crops but it is not easy for them to sell them as publicity is expensive and they are running on the proverbial shoestring.  Applications are being prepared for funding and the Highland council is supporting them by giving them the building rent free for the first year.  Take a look and buy some salad stuff.

Renewable Heating Systems Piloted In Highland Council Properties
The Highland Council has installed eight ground source heat pumps in eight of its properties as part of pilot project to evaluate the suitability of renewable energy technologies in tackling fuel poverty. The pilot, which is being managed by the Energy Saving Trust on behalf of the Scottish Executive, is being run across Scotland and will eventually involve participation by local authorities, housing associations and private householders. Ground source heat pumps (GSHP) extract solar heat stored in the ground and release the heat at a higher temperature in the house usually through underfloor heating or a radiator circuit. The heat is extracted from the ground using a "collection loop" which is lengths of plastic pipe buried in a borehole or trench. The pipe is filled with an antifreeze mixture which circulates through the pipe absorbing heat from the ground.

Laurandy Day Care Centre Car Boot Sale At Back Bridge Street Club, Wick
Laurandy Day Care Centre, Wick provides an excellent range of services to the elderly and their families but as a charity they must raise a certain amount of their own funds.  Pop in on Sunday 22nd in Back Bridge Street Club at 11.00am to support them and may be pick up a bargain.

The Rocket Man Launched InvernessFest With A Bang!
Sir Elton John's first ever appearance in the Highlands wowed a crowd of over 18,000 fans yesterday (Sunday 15 July 2007) at Tulloch Caledonian Stadium in Inverness. The Rocket Man's performance launched InvernessFest, a new two week festival in Inverness as part of Highland 2007, Scotland's year of Highland culture. InvernessFest takes place in and around Inverness until 29 July and incorporates the InvernessFest Club located in a beautiful Bon Vivant mirror tent in Falcon Square, and InvernessFest Fringe a celebration of the many cultures found in the Highlands today.

Wick Pipe Band Fancy Dress Night

More Latheron Show

Latheron Show 2007

5 Copper Tanks Stolen From Grant Street, Wick
Police in Wick are appealing for witnesses to a theft that occurred on Grant Street, Wick between 1500 hours and 1600 hours on Wednesday 11th July 07. During this time, people have entered the building and stolen 5 Copper Tanks. Any person with information please contact Duty Officer at Wick Police 01955 603551. Information can also be left anonymously by using CRIMESTOPPERS 0800 555111

Latheron Show On Saturday
Head down to West Clyne Farm for the Latheron Show on Saturday. Local Produce Tent - Dog Agility - Terrier Racing - Highland Dancing - Dog Show 2.00pm - Parade of animals 2.00pm - Pipe Band - Baby show 3.00pm - Tug o war - Horse Sports - Flower Tent - Vintage Machinery - Donkey Rides - Home industries Tent - Balloon Race - Tea - Coffees and much more.
Barn Dance at night at West Clyne Farm.

John Munro Wins Lybster Open
Competitors in the Seniors Open at Lybster Golf Club on Wednesday were subjected to blustery conditions, which made scoring difficult in the Stableford-format competition. The winner was John Munro from the host club, with a very respectable 36 points. This also secured the Connon Plate, presented to the Lybster G.C. member with the best score on the day. The runner-up was Ian Fraser of Thurso Golf Club, with 33 points and a better inward half from former winner, and Lybster member, Jimmy Hope.
 

Dunbeath Castle Gardens Open Day Sunday 15th 2.00 - 5.00pm
The walled gardens of Dunbeath Castle are open once again on Sunday.  Finders crossed for nice day and the chance to take stroll around.

Caithness Bands - Why Not Enter 'The Ultimate Chill' Best Band Competition At Wick?
The Ultimate Chill - Dundee's premier music, arts and dance festival and this year the festival is opening up their Best Band Competition to entrants from all over Scotland. Demos with contact details should be sent to Best Band Competition, The Workshop, 205 - 207 Hilltown, Dundee, DD3 7AF by 27th July. Alternatively, the festival is offering bands who don't have demos the chance to record them live. The fourth, and last of these 'open auditions' will take place at the Youth Centre (The Clubhouse) in Wick on Thursday 19th July. Anyone wishing to participate should email andy[AT]pmuk.org for more information and an audition time....................

NORTHERN CONSTABULARY AND EVENT ORGANISERS ISSUE ADVICE OVER PARKING FOR WEEKEND ELTON JOHN CONCERT
NORTHERN Constabulary and organisers of this Sunday’s Elton John concert at Tulloch Caledonian Stadium in Inverness have issued traffic advice to concert goers. Police and organisers would like to remind those attending the event, which is expected to attract 18,000 people, that there is no parking at the stadium unless you are the holder of a VIP or disabled car pass. If it is possible to get to Caledonian Stadium by foot Police and organisers would encourage them to do so to reduce traffic congestion and parking issues in the area around the stadium.  Caithness.org says "If heading over the Kessock Bridge at Inverness on Sunday get past the bridge long before the concert-goers begin to arrive or expect delays"

More Beautiful Butterflies - This Time From The Meadow At Dunnet Forest

Bees Bugs & Butterflies 2007   The 2006 Photos   Nature index

Caithness Ranger Walks -
Wildlife Detectives - Children’s Nature Group

Tuesday 17th July, 11am.
Find out what other creatures use the forest and the dunes. Meet Dunnet Forest car park at 11am.
Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. - £1 per child
Broubster Forest - Guided Walk - Thursday 19th July
This forest is great for its views over Caithness and there is also plenty to see in the path side ponds.
Meet Janet Street, Thurso 2 pm. Boots necessary as wet in places.  Allow 3 hours.
Booking essential. - Contact HC North Caithness

Hospital scanner delay concerns  - BBC
Health campaigners said they were furious at a delay in the delivery of a CT scanner at Caithness General Hospital in Wick. NHS Highland's board approved the purchase of the equipment last year.

Police Looking For Information on Petty Crimes In Thurso
Vandalism At Bayview Terrace, Thurso
Vandalism Incidents In Holborn Avenue and Holburn Avenue, Thurso
Vandalism At Cruives House, Mount Vernon, Thurso
Information wanted on Naver Scout Hall, Thurso Theft

Latest Addition To Baby Animals In Pets Corner
A baby cocker spaniel at 8 weeks and later at 13 weeks with its happy owner.
Caithness Pets Corner - Pets Gallery - Unusual Pets Gallery
Doggies Gallery - Moggies Gallery - Farm Pets
Caithness Pet Stories - Baby Animals

 

Witnesses Wanted After Window Smashed At Nicolson Street, Wick
Police in Wick are appealing for witnesses to an incident of vandalism whereby a window of a dwelling house in Nicolson Street, Wick was smashed between 2045 and 2100 hours on Tuesday 10th July 2007.

BBC Antiques Roadshow At The Castle Of Mey

Michael Aspel and the Antiques Roadshow team were at the Castle of Mey on Saturday to check out the antiques brought along by the public despite the wet weather. Luckily the team had also brought along large marquees for protection.

Thurso Still Waits To Hear If Gaelic MOD Will Come To Thurso In 2010
Undoubtedly the arrival of the Gaelic MOD brings a bustle to any town.  If Thurso is successful in the bid to host it in 2010 it is not just Thurso that will be busy but the whole county as several thousand folk, choirs, musicians and singers of all ages and their families arrive to compete in the competitions.

58 Degrees North T Shirt Putting Wick On The Nautical Map Once Agsin
A stylish "T" Shirt was designed for the recent Wick Harbourfest.  The design features a stylised sailing ship with the words "580 North" Wick, and the nautical flags for the letters WICK.  A few of the remaining stock have been placed for sale in the Blytheswood shop in High Street, Wick at a price of £9.99. 


 

New Pontoons At Wick Harbour Are A Big Hit
Already it looks as if the pontoons are looking to expand and it is great that the expansion to a new marina will be in the main harbour in 2008.  The recent Wick harbourfest showed the possibilities and the yachting folk have not been slow in taking up the berths.

 

Another Part Of High Street, Wick Gets A Face-lift
Another part of Wick is getting a facelift as Gunn's of Lybster machinery moved in to remove everything that is left of an old building where the TA Recruitment caravan used to stand.  the paving stones where the caravan used to stand had become an eyesore.  It was decided to remove everything from the site and put it back to grass matching the area next to it.  Work should be completed in a couple of days.  Councillors had been asking for action on this and other sites for some time. It was decided that the best time to carry out the work was once the road works in the centre of Wick were completed.

Partnership Announces Inward Investment Appointment
Roy Kirk has been appointed to the post of inward investment manager by the Caithness Regeneration Partnership. The role has been created to assist Caithness and North Sutherland's economy through the effects of the Dounreay nuclear plant's run-down. Mr Kirk was selected by a panel made up of the three lead agencies in the partnership, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Highland Council and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). He will become a HIE employee. He takes on the post from his current position with Scottish Development International - the Scottish Executive's inward investment and trade promotion arm. The Caithness appointment is part of an action plan agreed by the partners and will be complemented by a further co-ordinator post together with administrative assistance.

The 2007 Big Gig At Thurso - Friday 10th August
The Big Gig returns once more to Thurso thanks to the Thurso Town Improvements Association on Friday 10th August. Non-stop music from a huge line-up of bands from 2.00pm until 11.45pm. Print Out A Bigger Poster To Help Advertise the Big Gig
                      A Slightly Bigger Poster
 

Riverside Replicas Selling Last Wick Made Caithness Glass Pieces
Caithness Glass has made comeback in Caithness. Riverside Replicas the well-known furniture and gift shop at Riverside Road, Thurso has acquired a quantity of stock made at the Wick factory. In addition it has an extensive display of items of Caithness Glass making it the biggest supplier in the far north. Caithness Glass manufacturing stopped a couple of years ago at the Wick factory. Now the world famous glass can be found once again in Caithness with many pieces to suit almost any taste. Collectors will be making a bee-line for the Wick made items but many coming to it for the first time will see items suitable for presents and anniversaries.

Cat Missing - Macleod Road, Wick
Simba is a ginger and white tom from Macleod Road, Wick.  Hes been missing since 29 June 2007.  Very friendly cat.  Sometimes goes to the new bungalows near Coopers Corner.  Anyone seen him please contact 603789.

Casper Club Summer 2007 Programme
Registered Childcare Provider, Casper Club in Castletown is offereing a sizzlingly fun-packed Summer 2007 Programme. This year as ever, we intend to make the most of the ‘life outdoors’ season and have lots of outdoor activities including Day Camping, Den Making, panning for Gold at Kildonan, Outings to the forest, playparks, swimming pools, the ‘Castle of Mey’ with it’s new Animal Centre and the ‘Simply Unique’, ‘Tea Cosy & Peedie Farm’ in Mey. Summer wouldn’t be summer without the chance to play on the beach with fun games, sandcastle competitions, picnics and BBQ’s. We have the use of the Community Education Department Minibus for Outings, which the children have nicknamed ‘The Balamory Bus’!

Kids Bored - Nothing To Do?
If you have not already see posters or information there might still be time to get involved in the many activities being offered by the council's Education Culture and Leisure department this summer.  Also many local groups and churches run activities for children during the summer months.  For Activities In All Highland Areas Click HERE

 

Deadline To Apply For This Exciting Opportunity To Learn How To Make Short Films Extended To 31 July
WHAT'S YOUR HIGHLAND LIFE?  Tell Your Caithness Story

BBC Scotland are coming to Thurso in August 2007 to run storytelling and audio visual workshops. You can tell your story – and share it with the world – through 'Highland Lives', a BBC Scotland / Highland 2007 project running this summer throughout the Highland region. The workshops will help you illustrate your story about Highland life through video or audio slideshow. The finished pieces will be shown on the BBC Highland Lives website – http://www.bbc.co.uk/highlandlives  Stories on the website will reflect the modern-day reality of life in northern Scotland. Taking part is free but you do have to apply in advance. No one's too old, although the project is for over-18s only. It doesn't matter whether you have technical experience or not. Your story is what's most important.

Malawi Volunteers Return After Ten Weeks Of Voluntary Work In Caithness
Watten Church Aims To Help Them All With Their Education - You Can Help
The Global Xchange team of Malawians and Scots who were with us in Caithness for ten weeks have now left for Ekwandeni in Malawi to spend ten weeks there in voluntary work projects. This will complete their Global Xchange project between the two countries. Our Malawian friends will be able to go on to college courses, thanks to the generosity of so many in Caithness who have funded them for a first year at a college of their choice in Malawi. A fund for their college education has been set up by Watten Church of Scotland, and any further donations will enable the young people to extend their study courses over the subsequent years. Amazingly £75 can pay for education for a whole year for student in Malawi. So small amounts might be capable of changing lives dramatically for these young people who came to Caithness.

Liam Henderson Memorial Fund 2007 Raffle Prize List Growing
The 2007 Liam Henderson Memorial Fund looks set to be given another boost as the annual raffle prize list continues to grow.  Make sure you get your tickets as soon as possible as the draw is only weeks away.

Major New Shopping Development Next To Tesco, Wick Likely Be Controversial
Whilst consumers may be delighted to hear that a major new set of shops has been planned by developers Scapa Properties, next to the Tesco Store at Wick it is likely to attract objections from other retailers.  Several new shops by major national retail chains are the likely tenants if the new shopping centre gets the go ahead from the planning committee. Well Caithness folk do you want more new shops near Wick or will it be too detrimental for existing businesses? Head for the Message Board with your views

Building At Miller Street/Bank Row, Wick Also Gets Major Facelift
The work at Lower Pulteneytown has been going on steadily for the past four years as part of the Highland council run regeneration scheme with grants from the Heritage Lottery scheme and other funders.  This project on the building at the corner of Miller Street and Bank Row is being run by Pentland Housing and will create one shop/office and flats.  With a new marina to follow the pontoons into Wick Harbour next year and the Memorial Garden across the road going and with the BBC's Beechgrove Garden team coming in August to help with the work and make a TV programme this is fast becoming a sought after area of Wick after many years of decline.  Others areas of Lower Pulteneytown already improved include Blackstairs, Telford Street   It all Started In December 2000  Several of the streets in Lower Pulteneytown have had pavements relaid in the past few months using traditional Caithness Flagstone more in keeping with the buildings than brick or tar.  If you have not been there for a long time the changes are amazing and ongoing.  Anyone remember all those letters in the Groat just few years ago about the state of Wick.  It has taken a few years but it is changing for the better and more work is ongoing.

Transformation At Williamson Street, Wick
The transformation of Williamson Street in the shape of Silver Darlings Close in Lower Pulteneytown is making a huge difference to the look of the street.  The work is being carried out for the Highland Housing Alliance and we understand that all of the properties have already been sold reflecting the upturn in confidence now flowing around Wick.
Williamson Street Index

Wick's New Town Heating System Reaches Caithness General Hospital
The new wood chip heating system for parts of Wick run by the Caithness Heat And Power company has been working its way through the streets of Pulteneytown and South Wick for over a year and has now reached Caithness General Hospital.  The benefits of having a fixed monthly charge for unlimited heating and hot water are attracting more and more enquiries to the company that was set up by Highland Council almost two years ago.  Caithness Heat And Power

Rain Rain and More Rain At The Moment In Caithness But Look On the Bright Side - Rainbows
It may be non-stop rain for the past few days but from time to time a rainbow appears and thanks to Louise Young for sending in this photo.  If anyone else has managed to take photo of rainbow in the last couple of weeks send it in to add to this section.  email to bill@caithness.org  Conditions do not look too good for getting any in Wick at the moment.  It is still raining but very cloudy all around. Weather Links    More Past Weather Photos From Caithness
 

Olrig Street Looking NW Thurso
The forum thread on Old Thirsa Piccys has led to this old postcard being sent in By Bob Johnson. If anyone else has old postcards or photos of anywhere in Caithness we will be happy to post into existing sections or set up new ones.  Email any contributions to bill@caithness.org
Old Postcards on the web site are in the following sections
Caithness Postcards - Sutherland Postcards - Scottish Postcards
Canadian Postcards - English Postcards - New Zealand Postcards

Wick Pipe Band Fun Night Postponed Until Next Saturday Due To Weather

Rain Did Not Stop Play At Thrumster Fun Day

Thrumster Fund Day went ahead despite the non-stop rain today in Caithness.  Even the rounders went ahead although the teams had plenty of wet weather gear on.

St Fergus Open Triples Bowling Competition 2007

Have You NEVER Been In The ORG Forum? - Its Getting Bigger and Busier Every Day
In the past 6 days 1 - 6th July the Caithness.org forum/Message Board alone had 46,849 visitors looking at 255,339 pages.  In the past 12 months visitors to just the Caithness.org forum looked at over 15 million pages.  On Saturday 29th June another record was broken in the Forum when the highest number of folk 462 were in there at the same time at 9:30am.  The forum is averaging over 8000 visitors a day.  What's in there? Well just about anything from one of the biggest local FREE classified ads sections in Highland to ongoing threads about a huge range of topics - some serious and some not. Ask questions about Caithness and some one will probably be back with the answers incredibly fast. In fact ask a question about almost anything and the collective community will probably answer it and perhaps the odd wisecrack.  the audience is global and many expat Caithness folk are in there.  And there is also chat room with quizes run live on many Sunday evenings.  Huge numbers of photos being posted on many topics.  and and and - take a look  You can just read items or join in anytime by signing up for password - its FREE and its growing faster than we can believe. Over 1.3 million visits to the Forum in the past 12 months will easily be beaten in coming.  For comparison the whole of Caithness.org is now averaging over 1 Million visitors a month looking at over 6.5 million pages or over 27 million hits per months. Thank goodness we don't print it all out.

Funding For charities And Non Profit Organisations - And Today We Show Billions On Offer
We keep saying it - "The Money Is Out there for charities and non-profit organisations" but you have to fill in the forms.  The ones highlighted today are offering staggering amounts of money.  Does your group's project or activity qualify for a small or large grant or award.
Is your group involved in Culture, Social Enterprise/Business, Improving Health, Nature or Biodiversity then check these latest funding programmes to see if your ideas or projects qualify -
Culture Programme - Call For Proposals To Be Announced In July
Bridges Ventures Announces New £75 Million Investment Fund
GSK Impact Awards
First Call For Proposals Under The New Life + Programme To Be Launched In Autumn 2007

Wick Pipe Band Buskers Playing In Market Square, Wick Yesterday - Short Film
During Pipe Band Week a few members of the band get out into Market Square for a few tunes and for those of you who could not get to the Market Square this week here is one short clip.  Wick Pipe Band Week concludes tonight Saturday 7 July) with the Fun Night Fancy Dress Parade in Market Square 7.00 - 9.00pm
Pipe Band Fun Night 2005  2004  2006
Wick Pipe Band Web Site

THREE NIGHT WEEKEND BREAK ON SPECIAL OFFER
ACCOMMODATION FOR A FAMILY, FULLY INCLUSIVE - ARRIVE FRIDAY, DEPART MONDAY
DATES: 20th/21st/22nd July 2007 -
The full rental to be donated to Wick Hanging Basket Committee

You will need to be quick! Booking reservation on first to confirm basis. Special Offer Price £300 for a family of up to six. Book now and treat yourselves or your family to a fantastic weekend break in Wick. The booking cost will be donated in full to assist raise funds to meet the costs involved in providing and maintaining the wonderful floral baskets and arrangements displayed throughout the town. The committee are hard working and dedicated to making our town look charming for locals and visitors alike, and badly need sustained funding to continue their admirable work.

Second Turbine at Beatrice Demonstrator Project Now In Place
Turbine B at the Beatrice Demonstrator Wind Farm Project off Caithness has been lifted into place.  Work is currently ongoing to prepare the new wind turbine for operations.  the second turbine was delivered by 'Rambiz'  The turbines are expected to be fully completed and commissioned by 17 July.
Beatrice Wind Farm Demonstrator Newsletter Issue 5 - Pdf

Christmas In July At Sainsburys For Mey Selections Suppliers
Local Farmer and chairman of Mey Selections Danny Miller was once again beating the trail to Sainsbury's in London to highlight the growing range of high quality food products from the north of Scotland that willbe available for stores in time for Christmas. Suppliers from Mey Selections brought Christmas to Sainsburys HQ in July. Led by Tracy Waters, the Mey Selections team put on a fabulous show in its very own Mey Selections stand prepared especially for journalists and buyers at Sainsburys. Dermott Slade, development chef from Dunbia, was there to show and cook samples of beef and lamb cuts from the Mey Selections Gourmet Christmas offer. The stand also displayed the brand's oatcakes, honey and oat biscuits, shortbread, Barrogill whisky marmalade, preserves and chutneys, honey, and Mey Selections Barrogill whisky. The stand and products were on display for two days and over 240 journalists were on the invite list. Sainsburys order for Christmas delivery of these products has a retail value of over £250,000....

Prize Winners At Wick High
The annual prize giving ceremony took place at Wick High recently. Jenny Sinclair was awarded the dux medal and Fraser Macleod was runner-up. Donald MacBeath deputy principal of North Highland College presented the prizes. Jenny Sinclair piled up the points by being 1stin Biology and also won the James H. Rosie Memorial Shield, 1st in Chemistry, 1st equal in English, 1st in Maths and taking the medal presented by wick and district Round Table as dux of wick High School for 2006/07.  Well done to everyone. Rector Alister Traill praised the pupils for their efforts and outlined some of the improvements ongoing at the school including the introduction of school uniform after the summer. Donald MacBeath who presented the prizes announced a major partnership by the north Highland college and Wick High school with the introduction of several vocational courses for pupils of the school to be delivered by the college.

Everyone Is Invited To The Thrumster Fun Day 7 July 2007 2.00pm
Head over to Thrumster for a fun packed event for the kids this Saturday

Fly-fisher overcomes 'trick' conditions at Dounreay - Fish & Fly
One UK fly-fisher has managed to overcome difficult angling conditions to establish a six-point lead at the apex of the Dounreay Fly-Fishing Association table. Tony Chalmers has managed to prevail over a number of other hardy competitors who participated in the day's events on June 22nd at Loch Watten in Scotland.

North Wholesaler Has Its Ear To The Ground
One of Wick's longest-established businesses has proved it has its ear to the ground by introducing a ground-breaking, high-tech computerised system that automatically guides staff to the right area of its warehouse. The system at Sutherland Brothers Ltd has been assisted with a £24,000 grant from HIE Caithness and Sutherland and allows staff to hear instructions through headphones which help them select the correct item to add to customer orders. The north wholesaler has embraced the latest technology by introducing the integrated 'voicepicking' system in a bid to improve efficiency and become more competitive.

Do you like food ? - Do you want to support local producers? - Are you a local producer ?
WE NEED YOU to help us set up a non profit making community based business to link those who produce the food to those who buy the food . Help to keep the money in the community , reduce food miles and get great food into the bargain.
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE - Meeting 10th July @ Family Centre Wick @ 7 .30 pm
Caithness Food For Thought
Working with the Community for the Community
 

New Active Schools Co-ordinator
Recently appointed as the new Active Schools Co-ordinator for the cluster of 11 schools in East Caithness, based in Wick is Garry Macleod. In the coming months he will be establishing a number of sport / physical activity programmes using local volunteers where possible, these will take place during school holidays and also curricular / extra curricular time during school terms, targeting local children.
Interested in becoming a volunteer?
 

Dounreay Bulletin - Issue 7
In This Issue

Local Communities Benefit from Dounreay Communities Fund
Changes at the Top - Ground Contamination Investigation Continues
Product Development for New Waste Handling Facility
Minisiter Heads North to see Dounreay Decommissioning at Work
Particle Field Trials - End of an Era and Looking Towards the Future
Reactor Drilling Success
Changes to the Approach Road at Dounreay

WHAT'S YOUR HIGHLAND LIFE?  Tell Your Caithness Story
BBC Scotland are coming to Thurso in August 2007 to run storytelling and audio visual workshops. You can tell your story – and share it with the world – through 'Highland Lives', a BBC Scotland / Highland 2007 project running this summer throughout the Highland region. The workshops will help you illustrate your story about Highland life through video or audio slideshow. The finished pieces will be shown on the BBC Highland Lives website – http://www.bbc.co.uk/highlandlives  Stories on the website will reflect the modern-day reality of life in northern Scotland. Taking part is free but you do have to apply in advance. No one's too old, although the project is for over-18s only. It doesn't matter whether you have technical experience or not. Your story is what's most important.
Closing Date For Applications For Thurso Workshops Is Friday 6th July

Local Ranger Features In Highland Naturalists Exhibition
Local Ranger Mary Legg is one of 30 naturalists featuring in a three month long exhibition at SNH headquarters in Inverness. Leading figures from the Highlands’ natural history community gathered at Great Glen House in Inverness recently to celebrate 300 years of recording the area’s nature and wildlife. The event was the launch of Scottish Natural Heritage’s (SNH) Highland Naturalists exhibition and website – one of SNH’s key contributions to the Year of Highland Culture 2007 events programme. The exhibition, officially opened by Highland Council Convener, Sandy Park, tells the stories of people who have passionately studied and recorded the area’s landscape and wildlife with images, writings, sounds and artefacts. It is now on display for free public viewing at the SNH headquarters in Inverness over the next three months. Nature Index

Old Thirsa Piccys - Fast Growing Thread On the Forum Looking For More Old Photos
One of the most popular and fast growing threads in tthe Caithness.org Forum right now is "Old Thirsa Piccys" where folk are posting photos of Thurso from an earlier time and others are chipping in with details and information.  If you have any old photos post them to one of the photo sites and then take them back into the forum.  If you are not sure how to post photos and draw them back to the forum email them to bill@caithness.org to be placed in an old Thurso gallery on the web site. Bill will then link them to this forum.

More Castletown Gala
Photos 49 - 60                                           61 - 72

Seawatch National Whale and Dolphin Week In Caithness
A report by Colin Bird

The Annual Seawatch Foundation National Whale and Dolphin Week started on Saturday 23rd June. Even with the poor weather the planned watch at the caravan site in Thurso went ahead with a single Porpoise seen in Thurso Bay. Sightings were made earlier in the day by Karen Munro who saw a Minke Whale, Porpoise, and some unidentified Dolphins. During the watch I received a call from Dave Nicolson over at the Whaligoe steps who saw 3 big cetaceans quite possibly Minkes, one had been seen at Sarclet, Thrumster during the afternoon. But the star of the weekend was not a cetacean but a fish, a Basking Shark. Very few of these creatures are seen off the East Coast of Caithness they prefer water temp between 8-14c.

Dounreay Workers Beach Clean At Dunnet
Dounreay workers recently carried out their annual clean up of Dunnet beach,
as part of the site’s Environment Week. About 50 people converged on the beach armed with gloves, plastic bags and sun lotion, and spent the afternoon collecting and bagging the rubbish that had accumulated on the beach, which were then collected by the site’s facility managers Johnson Controls. The weather was kind, which made the work much easier. By the end of the day, two lorry loads of rubbish had been removed from the beach, making it a nicer place to visit. The workers were rewarded for their efforts with a barbecue, kindly laid on by Thurso Town Improvements. Mary Legg, the Highland Council ranger, said she was delighted with the work that was done and thanked those who had helped with the clean up. There were also some positive comments from holiday-makers who were staying at the caravan site!

Memory Loss Information Day Thursday 19 July 2007 Mackays Hotel, Wick  10.00 am - 4.00 pm
Do you think you have a memory problem or know someone who has? Drop in anytime.  Refreshments will be provided. A wide range of leaflets and brochures available.  Cathy Mackay, Thurso & Wick Services Manager, Alzheimer Scotland and Hannah Mclean, NHS Community Mental Health Team will be available to answer any queries or concerns you may have in confidence. Or if you prefer to contact us by Telephone: Cathy - 01955 609193 Hannah - 01955 606915

A Caithness Sunset and Blue Moon From Caithness
These two photos were both taken on 30th June.  The sunset by Stuart Young and the Blue Moon by Gordon Mackie.  Gordon said, "Should there be a second full moon in any calendar month it is referred to as a "Blue Moon". The next is not until December 2009.
More details can be found at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_moon and  http://www.obliquity.com/astro/bluemoon.html

NORTHERN CONSTABULARY POSITION FOLLOWING TERRORIST ATTACK IN GLASGOW
Northern Constabulary's Head of Operations, Chief Superintendent Bruce Duncan said: "Northern Constabulary and other Forces across the United Kingdom are being kept up-to-date with developments in the Strathclyde area. "We are working with them and our partners to help ensure that contingency plans are in place for any eventuality. "We also aim to provide the right balance between maintaining awareness of the continuing terrorist threat, and providing the right level of support to re-assure all communities that they are being protected. He added: "The Force will be putting additional resources in place to reassure the public, including additional resources at Dalcross Airport, Inverness.   Flying Index

Caithness Arts July/August Newsletter
The newsletter from Caithness Arts usually goes out by post but for this latest edition Caithness.org is hosting it.  The latest edition has a number of items on what has happening in the Arts in Caithness and what is coming up.  Also we have the Caithness Arts own What's On for you to print out and use as handy reference over coming weeks.

 

Archaeology Opportunities For All Ages This Summer In Caithness
Just a note to remind you of all the dates for the summer. There are lots of opportunities for all you budding archaeologists out there to get your hands dirty and be involved in some real archaeology.  Everyone is invited to either visit or come along and get involved whatever your age. In the past we have had visitors aged a few months to ninety. We hope you can spare a few hours to come and join us . Look out for our special open days in the local press, Caithness.org and the CAT website   NOW UPDATED  ! www.caithnessarchaeology.org.uk

Celtic in the Community - Top Football Coaching For Boys and Girls Coming To Thurso
7th and 8th July

Vehicle Restrictions At Wick Airport Due To Heightened Security Measures
Due to heightened security measures currently in place, vehicular access to the Terminal Building at Wick Airport is not available. All vehicles are requested to use the main car park. Special needs passengers who may require assistance are requested to contact the airline they are flying with to make appropriate arrangements. Passengers are encouraged to use taxis or be dropped off by car during this period of restricted access. HIA apologises for any inconvenience these measures may cause passengers.

Wick Banger Derby Film 4
Wick Banger Derby - Film 1
Wick Banger Derby 2007 - Film Two
Wick Banger Derby 2007 - Film 3
Wick Banger Derby Photos - 1 - 52


 

Yesterday 2 July 2007 Was The Busiest Day Ever On Caithness.org
Monday saw the records tumble once again on Caithness.org as the hit rate soared to new heights easily breaking the one million barrier only done for the first time last July.  Yesterday the stats were -
Hits 1,203,564  Pages 446,242  Visitors 44,037
Already it looks likely that July will maintain its seasonal position as the busiest month of the year on the web site.  June saw records broken but with only two days gone July is soaring.  This is mainly due to all the local events photos that have been posted in the past few days.  However other sections such as Arts and, What's On, Forum and Business have all seen a rise in traffic.

Lybster Gala Winners

Wick Banger Derby 2007 - Film 3
Wick Banger Derby - Film 1
Wick Banger Derby 2007 - Film Two
Wick Banger Derby Photos - 1 - 52
 


 

Canisbay Show 49 - 60       61 - 72                            73 - 84                 85 - 91

13 - 24                       25 - 36                       37 - 48

Canisbay Show 1 - 12

Antiques Road Show Coming To Castle Of Mey - Saturday 7th July
Michael Aspell and his team of experts from the BBC will be visiting the Castle of Mey this Saturday. If you have an item which might be of interest, why not take it along?

 

 

Rosebank Park, Wick Re-opens After £125,000 Refurbishment

Wick's Rosebank Playing Fields were officially re-opened on Saturday by Pulteneytown People's Project chairman David Dunnet. Lord Lieutenant Anne Dunnet introduced the Cormack family as they dedicated the newly resurfaced tennis courts and games area to former keen local tennis player David Cormack.  Margaret Cormack unveiled a plaque in his memory. A committee consisting of Councillor Katrina MacNab for PPP, the Lord Lieutenant Anne Dunnet, Councillor Bill Fernie, UKAEA and the Rosebank Bowling Club originally got things going after a donation to PPP by UKAEA. PPP decided to put £25,000 into the pot to get things rolling and other fund-raising was undertaken under the direct supervision of Katrina MacNab.  The park opened with the triples bowls competition underway on the improved green and new tennis courts and crazy putting all looking in tip top shape.  Already tennis and other games have seen an increase in participation.  The bowling green is now at competition standard.  The day had a festive feel to it with stalls and bands playing.  Wick is gaining in confidence as activity levels increase across the town and at the harbour where only a few years ago this would have seemed impossible.

Bill Fernie Is New Chairman For Highland Opportunity Limited
Councillor Bill Fernie, Highland Councillor for Wick, was recently elected as Chair of the Board of Directors of Highland Opportunity Limited and Councillor Helen Carmichael who represents the Aird and Loch Ness Ward was elected as Vice-Chair. Highland Opportunity Limited is a Highland Council company, limited by guarantee, with a Board of Directors drawn from the Council's elected members. It is the Enterprise Trust for the Highlands providing discretionary financial assistance, professional business support, youth enterprise services and European connections to small and medium-sized enterprises. It has a particular interest in helping new and developing businesses. (For more about the company see About Highland Opportunity Ltd)  The company currently has 28 staff (9 Core, 5 European Business Services and 14 in the Working For Families Project).

Wick Banger Derby 2007 - Film Two
Two more films coming later after uploading.

 


 

More Lybster Gala Photos Now Added
37 - 48                           49 - 60                               61 - 66

Lybster Gala Week Programme

Rock School In Thurso For 3 Days - Book Your Place If Aged 13 - 18
A great chance for any young musician or singer to find out how its done and make the best of hidden talent. ROCK SCHOOL - THURSO - 3 DAYS - 11-13 JULY.  This is a chance to get tuition from professionals. Whether you play in your bedroom or are in a band, you are interested in sound recording - production - promotion, you can sing, or just want to have some fun with other like minded people then call Maureen on 01847 805218 to book your place, you must be aged 13-18 - places are limited.

Wick Banger Derby Photos - 1 - 52

Wick Banger Derby - Film 1
More short films of the Wick Banger Derby will follow later........

 


 

2005 Wick Banger Derby  2006 Wick Banger Derby  A 2006 Wick Banger Derby Film (27 minutes)

Castletown Gala
Photos 13 - 24           25 - 36                                37 - 48

Castletown Gala 2007 - Photos 1 - 12

Castletown Gala
Also awaiting attention are the official Opening of Rosebank Park, Wick and photos from today's Banger Derby.  Meanwhile Bill will be out at the Triples Bowls competition now running very late due to the rain today.  64 triples took part in the competition once again being held in Caithness on Saturday and Sunday.  they have excellent sunny weather on Saturday but its been wet and misty today and play was held up for 45 minutes in a heavy downpour.  thing back on track but competition may not finish until 9.00pm tonight.
Castletown Gala photos will begin to appear with luck about 8.30pm but all of them will take longer to prepare.

Lybster Gala


Thanks to Marshall Bowman for taking the photos of Lybster Gala while Bill was over at Castletown Gala

June 2007 Sees Busiest Ever Month On Caithness.org
Over One Million Visitors In June
Hits 27,032,833  Visitors 1,051,280  Pages 6,538,266
Daily Average Hits 710,090 Visitors 35,040  Pages 217,938
Caithness.org is heading for an annual hit rate of over 300 million per year - err...WOW!!!
Thanks to all of our visitors and contributors

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