Council Leader welcomes extra sailings announcement – and praises community response

Orkney Islands Council has welcomed the news that NorthLink Ferries will be providing an extra return sailing from Stromness to Scrabster whilst the MV Alfred is off its Pentland Firth route.

The Hamanvoe will do two extra runs leaving Stromness at 9.15pm and departing Scrabster at 11.30pm from today.

Pentland Ferries had initially hoped to return to their route on July 10, however this has now been extended to July 18 whilst the Alfred goes to dry dock for a further inspection and possible repairs.

Council Leader James Stockan has praised NorthLink's response - and the wider community response to the situation faced by Pentland Ferries and its customers.

"From the moment the news came in that the Alfred had come ashore at Swona, a considerable community response swung into action.  From the lifeboat crews, to our Marine Services team, to the emergency services, to the local accommodation providers, to the community and businesses in the Hope.  Everyone played their part in responding to what could have been a very terrible situation indeed – which was testament to what makes Orkney such a special place to live, work and visit.

"To lose one route into the county in the height of our tourist season is hugely problematic - for visitors, locals and of course businesses, who will be impacted by freight and delivery issues.  NorthLink Ferries stepping up to the plate proactively to fill that gap is fantastic - and we look forward to Pentland Ferries getting back on their feet in due course."