John O Groat headlines for November 7, 2014

A SHERIFF in charge of a probe into the death in Caithness a young cyclist, is being asked to support more regular checks on the fitness of elderly motorosts to be behind the wheel. Procurator fiscal Alasdair MacDonald believes the move might not have prevented the accident involving Elaine Dunne on the A99 beternn John O Groats and Wick, three years ago but thinks it could help avert future tragedies.

CHURCH of Scotland represntatives in Caithness have noted narrowly to uphold the kirk's established opposition to the induction of gay ministers. But they have opened up the opportunity for congregations to opt out and start moves to call a minister who is in a same- sex relationship.

A CAITHNESS councillor yesterday said it would be "disappointing" if 24-hour specialist road policing cover is scrapped in the Highlands. Landward councillor, Matthew Reiss, a fomrer senior police officer, spoke to the John O Groat Journal after independent MSP John Finnie claimed there are plans to centralise the service in the central belt.

AN amended plan for three, onshore, buildings for the proposed MeyGen tidal energy scheme in the Pentland Firth, will be considered next week. Members of Highland Council's north planning committee are being recommended to give the green light at their meeting in Inverness on Tuesday.

A PLAN to shorten the school day for Highland youngsters, has been attacked by a Caithness mother. The plan has been suggested by Highland Council as part of budget cuts of £64 million over four years. Linda Malkik, a member of Thrumster primary parent council yesterday hit out at the proposal to reduce the length of the school day for primary pupils by 30 minutes.

ROYAL MAIL is encuraging customers in Caithness to post their festive greetings early, and order their online gifts and shopping well in advance, to help its posties deliver a bumper festive mailbag. It comes as the company unveiled this year's Christmas stamps with a series of festive family traditions depicted - from carol singing and ice skating, to posting.
SCRABSTER harbour had "a good year financially" and is receiving "positive feedback"from port users. That was the upbeat messaged delivered by chairman tom Pottinger at the annual general meeting of the harbour trust.