Despite a continuous spread in COVID-19 across Orkney throughout the festive period and into the new year, nurseries, schools and the college were able to reopen in full on the first day of term, Wednesday 5 January.

A number of staff and pupils were absent in relation to the virus across a handful of schools, however, there were no closures as a result.

Just before Christmas the Scottish Government announced further Covid-19 Business Support Grants for the hospitality sector.

You can find all of the information related to what support is available, eligibility and how to apply on the Find Business Support website.

As a young boy, Graham Campbell would stand and watch the boats of varying shapes and sizes come and go from Kirkwall pier; wet, salty air filling his lungs, giving him a lifelong love and respect for the sea.

He watched in awe when the lifeboat was launched, listening in as his elders spoke of those in distress. Despite his youth, Graham knew then that he would like to be one of those brave volunteers heading out to sea to try and help those in peril.

A road worker who helped maintain the highways in almost all areas of Orkney at some point during his 42-year career with the Council has retired.

Stevie Inkster, from Rousay – where he has worked for most of the four plus decades – received an OIC plaque and gifts from colleagues, Roy Foubister, Jim Leask and Billy Allan recently to mark the occasion.

An online ceremony is set to recognise and celebrate sporting excellence in 2022 — after organisers decided to postpone the Orkney Sports Awards.