March 4, 1999 – the day began just like any other.

Laura Torrance was a happy, bubbly 16-year-old with the world at her feet as she set off for school in East Kilbride that Thursday morning.

Little did Laura know that later that evening she would make a life-changing decision by getting into a car with a newly passed driver.

Stagecoach is the latest company to warmly welcome refugees into the county with the offer of free bus passes.

David Beaton, Managing Director for Stagecoach Highlands, said: “It’s hard to imagine the terrible experiences these people have been through. We're really proud to be playing our part in providing free bus passes to help these Ukrainian families settle into their new homes in Orkney."

The first to receive the passes are Olena Katsy and Natalia Simonova, pictured here with Stagecoach xxxxx and Keith Bendall Project Manager (Resettlement Schemes) on Thursday.

Orkney Islands Council’s Scapa Flow Museum has been shortlisted for a national industry award.

Trailer owners are being urged not to use public car parks to store their trailers following complaints to the Council from members of the public.

Due to staff training, the Council Offices reception will be closing at the slightly earlier time of 3.30pm on Friday 24 June 2022.

Customer Services will be closed for phone calls from 4pm but you will still be able to get through to other teams on 01856 873535 if you know the extension number. The Warehouse Buildings in Stromness will also close at the earlier time of 3.45pm.