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Community / Sumburgh Head lighthouse reopens

Photo: Shetland Amenity Trust

THE SUMBURGH Head Lighthouse and Visitor Centre reopened today (Sunday).

The number of people allowed in the visitor centre is now limited to ensure social distancing and a new one-way system has been put in place to direct folk through the engine room, smiddy, marine life centre and radar hut.

Painted puffin pointers have been put in place to help direct visitors through the various elements of the site in a one-way system and to help with social distancing.

Visitors will be encouraged to use hand sanitiser at regular intervals during their visit and they will be asked to wear face coverings.

The plan is to reopen for a month at this stage, with the opening hours Sunday-Thursday 10am-5pm with last entry at 4.30pm.

Jane Outram, who manages the site on behalf of the Shetland Amenity Trust, said: “We have seen lots of people at the site in recent weeks enjoying the wonderful weather, scenery and of course the puffins.

“Lots of people have been asking when we will reopen the visitor centre and facilities and we have been working hard to make that happen.

“We are excited to be welcoming people back. It is a great opportunity for people from Shetland to come and visit the site and rediscover all that we have to offer. There is lots to do outside but we also have lots to keep the whole family interested indoors too.”

She added that “every ticket sold or donation made goes directly into the upkeep of the facilities including the viewing platforms, car parks, toilets and the lighthouse itself”.

Tickets for Sumburgh Head are now available to buy online and on site.

The Amenity Trust, meanwhile, now also has a vacancy for custodian of its self-catering accommodation at the lighthouse.

Duties would include being the first point of contact for guests during their stay and ensuring that the property is in a clean and tidy condition at the start of each let.

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