Caithness Courier headlines for October 26, 2016


AN investigation is under way after tonnes of shellfish were found dead at Wick harbour. Local creel fishermen estimate between 12 and 15 tonnes of shellfish were found dead in the water at the quayside on Sunday, costing businesses thousands of pounds.


"We've had enough"... that was the big message from more than 500 people who marched through Wick town centre to protest against cuts to health services in Caithness.


AN airline, which operates out of Caithness, has christened one of its aeroplanes in honour of the county. Loganair has named one of its aeroplanes Spirit of Caithness to recognise the airline's long-established links with Wick John O' Groats Airport.


THE need to maintain and enhance NHS services in the far north and to maximise the number of patients who cane be treated in the area, were the main messages put out by the protestors who took part in the 21-mile bed push between Thurso and Wick and the mass protest at Caithness General Hospital.


A CAMPAIGN to get Caithness recognised as the broch capital of Scotland is to feature on national television on Friday evening. Those behind BBC Scotland's show Landward, travelled to the far north to meet representatives of Caithness Broch Project to find out about their drive to promote an important part of the county's history.


TRAINS on the far north rail line are to be upgraded as part of ScotRail's plans to improve its performance. The work will include upgrades to doors, radiators, operating controls and systems which may cause engines to shutdown.


VOLUNTEERS from Caithness organisations received certificates for their efforts at a function held at Thurso Library. A total of 31 certificates were handed over during the evening which was organised by Catherine Patterson, volunteer development officer at Caithness Voluntary Group.


A BEFRIENDING Caithness volunteer has spoken of his delight at the laughter and smiles that come from the person he visits as part of the charity's work. Roy Mackenzie says a gap in his life has been filled by being involved and a wonderful friendship has developed since being matched in June to his befriender, a Wick man in his 90s.


THE Scottish Cup dream for Wick Academy continues as they secured their place in the third round for a second successive season. They came back from a goal behind to produce a sensational second-half performance, to see of Whitehill Welfare, who lost the plot ending the game with eight men. The final score - 4-1.