Looking back on the week: Council resignation, Women’s Aid survey, Bigton Bakery expansion
IT IS rarely a quiet week in the news in Shetland and the last seven days have proved no exception.
The small team here at Shetland News has overseen around 50 stories, round-ups, letters and other contributions since Monday.
The week kicked off on an election theme as Lib Dem candidate Emma Macdonald took aim at the Scottish Government’s work on fuel poverty, while the Greens said supporting them in the regional list vote could reduce Reform’s chances of success in the Highlands and Islands.
But it was local government politics that ruled the headlines this week as councillor Andrea Manson decided to resign from her role as convener after a company directorship disqualification.
She had earlier vowed to fight on to clear her name but after it had emerged a majority of councillors had backed a motion for Manson to be removed from the position, she decided to stand down.
Elsewhere in the council there was news on traffic calming measures on Gilbertson Road, the fragility of the ferry service and claims of teachers being passed over for full-time jobs.
One of the most important stories of the week was the publication of the results of a Shetland Women’s Aid survey.
Tackling gender-based violence a ‘whole community issue’, charity says
Of the 116 women who responded during a 16-day survey period, more than half – 66 women – said they had been affected by gender-based violence in the isles.
Elsewhere in the week there was good news for local shops, with the SIC approving the continuation of a rural retail grant scheme and the Northmavine Community Development Company confirming that it would fund the Hillswick Shop for another year.
We also headed to the South Mainland to find out more about expansion plans for Mat Roberts’ and Gus Dow’s popular Bigton Bakery, and caught up with a sailor who travelled from Norway to Fair Isle using only a compass and chart for navigation.
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We also ran stories on two turbines proposed for land south of Brae, and a UK strongman competition which is heading to Shetland for the first time.
It also also the South Mainland’s chance to enjoy the Up Helly Aa season, with Karl Davidson leading festivities as guizer jarl.
Thanks for all your support this week, with Shetland News continuing to provide news and views free of charge. Remember that if you like what we do and feel able to, you can become a supporter here.
More stories from the week:
- Unst folk to be given first opportunity to view SaxaVord launches
- Lib Dem and SNP candidates clash over energy policy
- Drama festival a ‘genuine’ community event as 2026 winners crowned
- Islands arts project receives £200k funding
Shetland News — free to read
Membership helps pay for journalism
If you value impartial local journalism, become a member of Shetland News and get:
- Only local ads.
- Members' weekly newsletter.
- Bookmark stories and join the comments.
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