|
Orkney News
News
Orkney celebrates the 10th anniversary of its UNESCO World Heritage status for Neolithic sites with special archaeological tours at Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. Meanwhile, the islands face transport disruptions as ferry services to mainland Scotland are reduced due to crew shortages.
Business News
The Orkney Distillery announces expansion plans following record whisky exports to Asia and North America. Local seafood producers report strong demand for Orkney lobster and scallops, with new contracts secured with Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe.
Economic News
Orkney's economy grows by 3.1% - the highest rate in Scotland - driven by renewable energy projects and heritage tourism. The islands' pioneering tidal energy scheme now supplies 45% of local electricity needs, with plans to export surplus power to the mainland.
Political News
Council leaders demand greater autonomy from Holyrood after Scottish Parliament rejects Orkney's bid for increased infrastructure funding. The Our Islands Our Future campaign gains momentum with growing support for enhanced decision-making powers.
Election News
Orkney's long-serving Liberal Democrat MP faces a strong challenge from the SNP and Conservative candidates in the upcoming general election. Key issues include ferry reliability, fuel poverty, and protecting local fishing rights post-Brexit.
Employment News
Unemployment falls to 2.1% - the lowest in the UK - as new jobs are created in marine renewables and heritage conservation. The Orkney Research Campus launches a training program for green energy technicians, with guaranteed employment upon completion.
Business News
Orkney-based companies show strong performance, with European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) shares rising 12% after securing new international contracts. The Orkney Wine Company's IPO is oversubscribed following successful exports of its seaweed-infused spirits.
Forecast
-
Monday: Sunny, 16°C, gentle breeze
-
Tuesday: Cloudy, 15°C, light rain
-
Wednesday: Showers, 14°C, fresh winds
-
Thursday: Overcast, 13°C, moderate breeze
-
Friday: Sunny intervals, 15°C, light winds
-
Saturday: Partly cloudy, 16°C, gentle breeze
-
Sunday: Rain, 14°C, strong winds
Entertainment News
The St Magnus International Festival opens with a world premiere composition inspired by Orkney's Viking heritage. Kirkwall's Phoenix Cinema screens the Orkney-shot psychological thriller "The Stone Teller," attracting international film critics to the islands.
Upcoming Events
-
June 28: Orkney Folk Festival opening concert
-
June 20: Westray Wife Festival celebrating Neolithic heritage
-
June 21: Summer Solstice at Maeshowe chambered cairn
-
June 22: Orkney Marathon around the Mainland
-
June 24: Tall Ships Race departure from Stromness
-
June 26: Orkney Science Festival launch
-
June 28: St Magnus Cathedral 850th anniversary concert
-
June 29: Orkney Agricultural Show in Birsay
-
July 1: Scapa Flow 100 boat parade commemorating WWI history
-
July 3: Orkney International Dark Sky Festival begins
Stay tuned for more updates from Britain's northernmost cultural and economic hotspot!
|
|