Orkney Islands Council is reminding local drivers to take extra care on the roads as schools reopen after the October break.

Schools reopen to pupils on Monday October 24 and with the darker mornings and evenings - and the additional challenges that wintry weather can bring - it's more important than ever that drivers keep a close eye out for children and young people travelling to and from school.

Families are also being encouraged to make use of high vis vests, reflective strips and LED lights to ensure their youngsters are visible on Orkney's roads and pavements.

As the UK looks to mark Emergency Services Day on Wednesday, Council Convener Graham Bevan has paid tribute to the local people serving in the police, fire, ambulance and search and rescue services in Orkney. 

Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day, takes place on 9th September each year, however, as Her Majesty The Queen passed away on 8th September, the date for 2022 was rescheduled out of respect for the King and national mourning.

999 Day will now take place on Wednesday 19th October 2022.

Orkney Islands Council is advising that some changes are being put in place for the opening and closing times at Customer Services at the One Stop Shop in Kirkwall.

With effect from Monday 24 October 2022, the reception and contact centre (the staffed phone lines) will be open throughout the working day from 9am to 5pm - no longer closing between 12pm and 1pm.

A look ahead at road works coming up, including impacts on public bus services.

The engaging spirit between Council colleagues who joined together for a cancer fundraising challenge and the generosity of the Orkney public have been commended in the Scottish Parliament.

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur raised a motion during September praising the efforts of all involved in the challenge which raised over £16,000 for Cancer Research UK – more than trebling the original £5k target.