Also in the news 14 October 2026

Shetland wool on Mastermind

Campaign seeks new council candidates

MP backs EU cooperation

Bluetongue workshops

14 October 2026 17:30

SHETLAND wool made its way on to legendary BBC quiz show Mastermind in an unusual way recently.

Contestant Emily used Shetland wool to make the Transport for London inspired vest. Photo: Jamieson and Smith

Contestant Emily used Jamieson and Smith’s 2ply jumper weight to design a vest to wear on the show, inspired by her specialist subject – Transport for London moquette fabric.

Emily took the London Overground fabric and reimagined its design as a colourwork motif, using local shades 66, 1285, 4, 34 and FC24 to craft her tank top.

Jamieson and Smith said they were “delighted” to see Shetland yarn used to celebrate “such an iconic part of textile and transport design”.

“Well done to Emily on her brilliant vest and her appearance on Mastermind,” they added.

PEOPLE across Shetland are being encouraged to consider standing for council ahead of next May’s elections.

Voters across Shetland will elect their next councillors next year, with Shetland Islands Council launching a campaign to attract more people to stand.

“Who stands for the Council? It’s people like you” encourages residents from all walks of life to consider becoming a candidate.

As part of the campaign, a new handbook has been published, providing practical information about what councillors do, who can stand for election, the support available to elected members, and how to become a candidate.

People can explore the new campaign resources and download the handbook here.

ISLES MP Alistair Carmichael has welcomed prime minister Andy Burnham’s commitment towards a “deeper cooperation” with the European Union.

Burnham has confirmed that a series of deals will be discussed at the next month’s UK-EU summit, including food and drink, energy trading, and coordination on immigration.

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The Lib Dem MP reacted by saying: “While there will be much to consider in the detail of any agreement with the EU, it is encouraging to hear the prime minister talk seriously about the potential benefits of a closer trading relationship with our nearest neighbours.

“The trade fiasco created by the Conservatives – and cheered on by the likes of Nigel Farage – has done immense harm to our country’s economy and national security.

“Seeking to remedy that harm is basic common sense – it is just a shame that it has taken so long for the government to recognise that fact.

“What matters next is that any new deal has full scrutiny in parliament and transparency for the public, so that potential pitfalls and missteps can be avoided. If the prime minister takes that approach, then he will be on the right track.”

THE James Hutton Institute will host a series of workshops to better understand the threats bluetongue virus presents to livestock keepers in Scotland.

On 3 October the bluetongue restricted zone was extended from covering parts of south-west Scotland to cover the whole of Scotland.

Multiple cases of the disease have been found across Scotland, affecting farms from Aberdeenshire to Dumfries.

Livestock keepers interested in taking part are invited to attend one of three workshops taking place across Scotland this autumn:

The Scottish Smallholding and Countryside Festival at Ingleston, Edinburgh – Saturday 17 October
The crofters’ workshop in Ullapool Village Hall, Market Street – Monday 2 November
The young farmers’ meeting at Thainstone Mart in Inverurie – Monday 30 November/Tuesday 1 December

Those keen to share their thoughts but unable to attend the workshop can also complete a short survey online here.