Orkney Islands Council is urging local people to help shape and improve active travel options in their community, by taking part in a new survey launched jointly with Sustrans and being directly delivered to households in coming days.

In the past 18 months, 60 people in Orkney have engaged with the online mental health community, Togetherall.

The vast majority who used the digital platform from the county were students aged between 16-24 and issues most commonly raised included stress, anxiety, depression and loneliness.

Folk in Orkney are well known for their compassion and generosity when it comes to charity at home and away.

You will be aware of the ongoing international Turkey and Syria earthquake appeal by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) and they have written to the Council Leader, James Stockan, asking if we can support the local effort that is already underway.

An exhibition showcasing the Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre Triptych - a community project which celebrates the maritime heritage of these three islands – is being held on Rousay and Dounby next week (23-24 February).

This will be the only chance to see the triptych – three new pieces of art by Orkney-based textile and print artist Ceri Biddle - before it is split between the three island ferry waiting rooms to be enjoyed by residents and visitors.

Orkney Islands Council has welcomed the adoption of the Scottish Government’s National Planning Framework this week.

A roundup of road works underway or soon to start in the county, including impacts on public bus services:

Shapinsay residents are being reminded to advise the Council how many wheelie bins they want delivered to their address, by Friday 24 February.

The smooth running of Orkney’s cruise industry is seen as a “beacon of success” by other UK ports who strive to reach the high standards set in the county.

As a result of the successful partnership working by Orkney Harbours, Meet and Greet, shore excursions and shuttle bus teams, tourist attractions and local shops, alongside the fantastic Orkney offer and friendly welcome, Kirkwall is often named “top of the stops” in northern Europe by cruise liner passengers.

The Council’s Trading Standards Team may be small in number – but they are packing a mighty punch when it comes to helping the public.

They were able to get £110,000 returned to someone who had been scammed of their life savings and prevented another losing £7,500 thanks to advice provided on an advertising scam. A number of energy supplier issues were resolved and refunds made.

St Margaret's Hope and Finstown are cracking places for locals and visitors alike - but are there any changes that could make them even better?