Ryan Taylor

4 weeks ago | shetlandtimes.co.uk | Ryan Taylor

Shetlanders are all too familiar with the dead hand of distant government – whether it be in Edinburgh, or London – and the unken bureaucrat in Whitehall has done it again by greatly underestimating the value of access to the island’s productive fishing grounds. This new Labour government is burning through bridges quickly: disinherited farmers, colder pensioners, poorer disabled people, burdened small businesses, and now deeply frustrated fishermen.

1 month ago | shetlandtimes.co.uk | Ryan Taylor

A popular Lerwick eatery which has showcased the best of Shetland’s culinary offerings has gone on the market. Fjara Cafe Bar is for sale through Anderson Strathern. Established in 2014, Fjara quickly built a strong reputation for being a vital part of Lerwick’s social and culinary landscape. It was extended in 2021, and is now said to be one of Lerwick’s longest-serving food establishments.

1 month ago | shetlandtimes.co.uk | Ryan Taylor

Events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day are drawing near. A flotilla of historic vessels are due to visit the isles this week, ahead of VE Day on Thursday. The convoy is expected to arrive in Lerwick on Tuesday, and will be made open to the public on Wednesday. The largest in the convoy is the 60-metre cargo ship S/S Hestmanden known as the “Norwegian War Sailor Museum”.  On Wednesday evening crews from the vessels, veterans and guests will form a procession led by Lerwick Pipe Band.

2 months ago | shetlandtimes.co.uk | Ryan Taylor

Shetland Central councillor Moraig Lyall has joined the Liberal Democrats – and could represent Shetland at Holyrood. The chairwoman of the council’s environment and transport committee has put her name forward for selection as the party’s candidate in next May’s Scottish elections. Mrs Lyall has updated her declarations of interest to include her Lib Dem membership.

2 months ago | shetlandtimes.co.uk | Ryan Taylor

NHS Shetland has cancelled non-urgent surgical procedures as it tackles a continuing strain on resources at the Gilbert Bain. The health board warns the hospital is operating at full capacity following a sustained period of high demand across both hospital and community services. All available inpatient beds have been opened. But NHS Shetland says maintaining this level of care requires careful consideration of which services it can safely continue to deliver based on available staffing.