Fans of bacon butties on Orkney Ferries' sailings to the Outer North Isles will be pleased to hear that the on board catering service is up and running again from today.

Orkney’s unique strengths and challenges were highlighted to ministers from across the UK this week as the Islands Council welcomed three elected representatives to the county.

People in Orkney are being invited to “come on board” to help shape the Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan.

Orkney Marine Planning Partnership has published a guidance document, a Statement of Public Participation, showing how the public can get involved in moulding Orkney’s marine economy and environment. It outlines the indicative timescale and how people can input to the development of the Marine Plan.

If the rumours are to be believed Orkney is the place to be if you are a celebrity!

First came the cruise liner Celebrity Silhouette on Wednesday, followed on Thursday by the multi-million-pound super yacht, Triple Seven – reportedly carrying movie great Tom Cruise on board.

The Council is advising that due to a provider glitch during the transfer of numbers over to the new OIC telephone system, the normal Homecare Service usual number - 01856 888390 – may be unavailable tonight and into tomorrow.

However, as an interim measure, anyone requiring the service can reach Homecare by dialling 01856 873535 and extension 3241 when you hear the automated greeting. 

All residents in Scotland, including those in Orkney, under the age of 22 will be eligible for free bus travel from 31 January 2022.

Over 2,500 people flocked to the Costa del Kirkwall Broad Street Sands over the past five days – with the event hailed a “sensational summer success”.

Laura Bruce, Manager of Kirkwall BID, said: “Over 2,500 visitors came to enjoy Broad Street Sands, building sandcastles, hunting for Groatie Buckies, and relaxing with friends and family in our deckchairs. 

Orkney Islands Council has welcomed funding worth more than £1.5 million from the Scottish Government to improve the energy efficiency of homes across the county.

Pupils across Orkney are today (Tuesday 10 August) receiving their examination qualification results from the Scottish Qualifications Authority and are to be commended following what has been another challenging year.

Students who signed up for the SQA’s text or email results service should have received their results between 8am and 9am today, with results on paper delivered by First Class post throughout the day.

A new phone system is set to go live at Orkney Islands Council later this week.