John O' Groat Journal headlines for March 31, 2017


A CAITHNESS youth sports coach has been left concerned for the future of her club as the price of school lets increases by 10 per cent tomorrow. Wick Junior Badminton Club coach, Patty Coghill, was astounded to learn the club would have to pay £261 to hire Thurso Games Hall for six hours, to stage a tournament it is going to hold at the end of April.


LESSONS learned during the initial operation period of tidal demonstration turbines installed in the Pentland Firth, have led to the removal of some of them from the water and work onshore to improve their systems


PLANS have been announced to increase ambulance provision in Caithness. Scottish Ambulance Service and NHS are investing in the ambulance service following a review show and increase in inter-hospital transfers between Caithness General Hospital and Inverness Raigmore Hospital. SAS will soon be advertising for new and qualified ambulance staff.


PLANS for a major shake-up of NHS Highland have been criticised for lacking detail. Board members were asked to endorse proposals for "quality and sustainability" an attempt to plug a £100 million budget gap.


MOTORCYCLISTS are hitting the road during Easter as they look to help good causes by personally delivering chocolate eggs. Back O' Beyond Bikers Caithness, have come together to help the community as well to share their love of two-wheeled machines.


THURSO Alexander Glasgow will stand as a Liberal Democrat candidate in the Thurso and Northwest Caithness ward for Highland Council's elections on May 4.


THE trust which runs the Castle of Mey is continuing its training programmed at the late Queen Mother's long-time holiday home in the far north. The initiative took root in 2015 when graduates were given the chance by the trust to start their first salaried employment at the Goring hotel in London at a ceremony attended by members of the Royal family.