For weeks the global economy has appeared to survive the Iran crisis better than many feared. Petrol stations remain open, aircraft are still flying and supermarket shelves are still stocked.
A&D Sutherland Ltd have vacancies for General labourers. Please apply including your CV to: mark@caithnessflagstone.co.uk.
CLFC summer sessions' We are delighted to be able to offer free taster sessions for girls between the age of 4 and 12 this summer (see poster attached). Please complete the form in the below link and email back to caithnessladiesfc@gmail.com .
A date for your diaries - Sunday 14th June. Yarrows Heritage has been renovating the Yarrows Trail - new signage, information boards, leaflets, waymarker posts, etc.
Care Planning Coordinator – Laurandy Centre Wick The Laurandy Centre is recruiting an experienced Care Planning Coordinator to join our team. The Laurandy Centre is a registered day support service for older people, delivered by a respected third sector organisation and funded as a commissioned service by the NHS.
If Edinburgh Airport goes ahead with the new £8.50 charge for 10 minutes, it will become one of the most expensive airports in the UK outside London, but not the outright most expensive overall. Edinburgh will effectively be tied as the most expensive airport outside London for a standard 10-minute drop-off.
Moneyfacts UK Mortgage Trends Treasury Report data reveals that despite mortgage turmoil easing in April, first-time buyers remain under pressure from reduced choice and stretched affordability. Mortgage product choice has contracted by around 10% since the start of March, with higher loan-to-value deals (10% or less deposit or equity) falling by 14%, a blow to first-time buyers in particular.
At 900am today the oil price has risen again to almost $105. The oil market is in a “yo-yo” phase right now because traders are reacting hour by hour to conflicting news about war risks, supply shortages, peace negotiations and the wider economy.
Based on the latest published data, both the Scottish Government and the UK Government are currently nowhere near the build‑rates required to meet their own housing targets. The gap between targets and actual new starts is now so large that without major policy, planning, and funding changes those promises are indeed “pie in the sky”.
The UK housing shortage is driven by a combination of long‑term structural failures rather than any single cause. Across multiple authoritative sources, the evidence points to chronic undersupply, rising demand, high construction costs, loss of social housing, and planning bottlenecks as the core drivers.
Caithness cannot “fix” its housing crisis with the same tools used in the Central Belt. The county needs a rural‑specific, infrastructure first, builder capacity‑led recovery plan not more targets, consultations, or glossy PDFs.
Alcohol‑specific deaths fell sharply in 2024, dropping to 9,809 deaths across the UK the lowest since 2021 and the first meaningful decline since 2018. But rates remain highest in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and men continue to die at roughly twice the rate of women.
The next Scottish government is likely to face some of the toughest financial decisions since devolution. Economists, the Fraser of Allander Institute, the Institute for Fiscal Studies and the Scottish Fiscal Commission have all warned that Scotland is heading towards a funding gap approaching £5 billion by the end of the parliamentary term unless spending is cut, taxes rise, or economic growth improves sharply.
There is growing evidence that UK employers are becoming more reluctant to hire younger workers, particularly in entry-level sectors such as retail, hospitality and leisure, as employment costs rise sharply. The evidence comes from official data, business surveys, economists, recruitment firms and parliamentary hearings.
The financial pressures facing both the Scottish Government and councils could create major risks for ambitious long-term capital programmes such as The Highland Council’s Highland Investment Plan (HIP), including the proposed £100 million redevelopment of Thurso High School into a major community campus. However, the picture is complicated because projects like Thurso are also politically and economically important for the region.
The rapid growth of artificial intelligence, data centres and advanced computing demand is beginning to affect the wider technology market far beyond gaming consoles. Governments, councils, banks, universities, hospitals and large companies are all facing rising costs for servers, networking equipment, storage systems and high-performance computer chips.
The Regional Returning Officer for Highlands and Islands, Derek Brown has declared the results for the Scottish Parliament Highlands and Islands Regional list. Maree Todd who lost out to the libdem candidate David Green gets back in on the list.
One of the emerging realities of the global economy is that access to reliable water is becoming almost as important as access to electricity. Shale gas extraction and AI data centres are major examples, but a growing list of industries now require enormous quantities of water for cooling, cleaning, chemical processing, hydrogen production, or power generation.
The standoff in the Strait of Hormuz has already made fuel and energy noticeably more expensive. But energy prices are only part of the story.
With 14,666 votes for David Green, the Scottish Lib Dems have taken the seat from the SNP's Maree Todd. The Constituency and Regional Returning Officer for Highlands and Islands, Derek Brown has declared the results for the Scottish Parliament constituency of Skye, Lochaber, and Badenoch.
Drones have rapidly moved from niche military tools to one of the defining technologies of modern warfare. The war in Ukraine, tensions around Taiwan, and the wider global military build up have all demonstrated the same reality.
For once, Caithness is not on the periphery of a national project — we’re right at the landfall. The 1 GW Ayre Offshore Wind Farm, a floating ScotWind development by Qair, will bring its cables ashore at Keiss and feed into the new Banniskirk Hub.
The U.S. is in a bizarre situation in 2026: It’s facing a looming energy shortage, yet the Trump administration is making deals to pay offshore wind developers nearly US$2 billion in taxpayer money to walk away from energy projects.
Oil prices hovering around or above $100 per barrel are about far more than expensive petrol. High oil prices ripple through the entire global economy, influencing inflation, interest rates, government borrowing, mortgage costs, and household finances.
DINGWALL, Dingwall & Highland Marts Ltd., (May 6th) sold 471 Prime Sheep. New Season Lambs (6) averaged 398.0p per kg and sold to 398.0p per kg and £203 gross.
For more than a century, armies recruited the same way: find the strongest, the toughest, the most physically resilient. But the rise of drone warfare from Ukraine’s FPV units to long‑range strike teams has flipped that logic on its head.
See poster..
Australia’s decision to tighten rules around LNG exports (LNG Exporters to Reserve 20% of Gas for Domestic Market) is attracting growing attention across global energy markets. While the policy is not a full export ban, it does signal a shift toward prioritising domestic energy security over unlimited exports.
Administrators handling the sale of collapsed Scottish rocket manufacturer Orbex have received 15 offers for parts of the business and its assets. FRP Advisory, which was appointed after the Moray-based firm went into administration earlier this year, said there had been a “high level” of interest from buyers.
When Modella Capital bought WH Smith’s high‑street estate last year, the promise was bold: a fresh start, a new name, and a renewed role as the “hub of the high street”. Less than twelve months later, that vision has collapsed into a stark warning — up to 150 stores may close, hundreds of jobs may go, and another familiar name may fade from Britain’s town centres.
This immaculately presented four-bedroom semi-detached property is ideally situated in the heart of the town, offering generous living space and excellent convenience to local amenities and East Caithness Community Campus. A standout feature of the home is the stunning conservatory, providing a bright and relaxing space overlooking the beautifully maintained garden, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.
The Pentland Hotel, Thurso, is one of three hotels in The Caithness Collection, an established family hotel business, with over 35 years of hospitality experience. The hotel has 42 rooms, which caters for tour buses from April to October, we have a strong local client following allowing us to stay open all year round.
Blargoans Ltd have 12-month contract opportunity for a Senior Administrator to work within our client’s facility in Caithness. Key responsibilities will include Manage vetting, aftercare and the Automated Access Control System (AACS), providing expert oversight and reporting.
The UK is entering a new phase in its energy story—one defined not by choice, but by necessity. Across the country, more wind farms, battery storage sites, substations and power lines are being proposed, approved and built.
See poster.
Job Description As a Catering Assistant, you'll be part of a dynamic, fast-paced team, contributing to a positive and friendly work environment. The role offers numerous opportunities for growth within a company that values individuality and invests in its employees.
This beautiful bright and modern two-bedroom property is an ideal purchase for a first-time-buyer. Sitting in a really quiet area of the town and somewhat hidden, with being set back from the street, with a view onto the beautiful Central Church building.
The aviation industry is entering a period of renewed uncertainty. The collapse of Spirit Airlines has raised serious questions about the stability of low-cost air travel, especially as fuel prices and operating costs continue to rise globally.
See poster for details Scan to book..
See poster for details..
For the first time in modern history, Britain’s life expectancy curve has flattened. The Office for National Statistics confirms that the average Briton is living longer in years but shorter in health.
A college + university like no other With 19 campuses and centres across the North and West Highlands, Skye, and Outer Hebrides, we cover a geographic area larger than Wales, comprising 40% of Scotland’s coastline. Our campuses and centres are located within historic towns and villages, set amongst the shorelines, mountains, and moors, with local staff working across our region to support our students and communities. Position: We are seeking a Lecturer – Higher Physics SCQF 6 , to be based at any of our NWH college campuses.
Senior Support Worker 16 hrs per week £15:50 ph. Key Responsibilities * Work Closely With Management team to ensure smooth running of service.
A Highland Council by-election is being held for Ward 4 – East Sutherland and Edderton following the resignation of Councillor Jim McGillivray. The Notice of Election and timetable for this election will be published on the Council’s website on Thursday 14 May 2026.
An excellent opportunity to acquire this two-bedroom end-terraced home, offering generous living space and outstanding potential in a convenient and well-connected location. Requiring full renovation throughout, the property presents a blank canvas for buyers looking to create a bespoke home tailored to their own style and needs.
About Us BBM Solicitors Ltd is a boutique Scottish law firm committed to delivering exceptional legal services, guided by our core values of Quality, Service, and Trust. The Role We are seeking a confident, organised, and proactive Administration Assistant to join our team in Wick.
We are looking for a cook for our busy bakery café. Executing our light menu that showcases all of our homemade traditionally baked goods with fresh products.
RDI Renewables Ltd is looking for an organised, proactive Administrator to join our friendly team in Thurso. We’re a dynamic, forward-thinking company specialising in renewable energy solutions across Caithness and Sutherland – and we’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to quality work and excellent customer service.
Two bedrooms Kitchen/Dining Utility Living room Bathroom and downstairs WC Front garden laid to lawn with established borders Enclosed rear garden laid to patio with raised beds and shed Gas central heating, hive controlled with TRV Energy efficiency rating band C Council tax band A Off street location with off set parking No chain. Home report available.
An opportunity for rural communities to apply for funding to support their projects is now open. The Highland Local Action Group (LAG) is inviting organisations to apply for grants up to £10,000.
Hugh Simpson (Contractors) Ltd. is the largest crane hire and heavy lifting services company based in Caithness.
Specsavers in Wick are looking for an enthusiastic person to join our store due to continued growth. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, hard-working team.
New closing date: Tuesday 19th May 2026 | Vacancy: | Graduate Electronics Engineer | Duration: | Permanent | Location: | Thurso Salary: TBA Candidate dependant At Denchi, we offer an environment where your talents will be nurtured, and your ideas will have a real impact. Denchi has 20 years of expertise in designing and manufacturing batteries from our base in Thurso, Scotland, we proudly serve blue chip customers in defence, security, aerospace, oil and gas, and renewables markets.
A college + university like no other With 19 campuses and centres across the North and West Highlands, Skye, and Outer Hebrides, we cover a geographic area larger than Wales, comprising 40% of Scotland’s coastline. Our campuses and centres are located within historic towns and villages, set amongst the shorelines, mountains, and moors, with local staff working across our region to support our students and communities. Position: Are you passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment? We’re looking fora compassionate and proactive Learning Support Worker to be based at our Thurso campus to play a key role in empowering students to thrive—academically, personally, and emotionally.
| Vacancy: | Production Operative | Duration: | Permanent | Location: | Thurso Salary: £26,227.50 per annum At Denchi, we offer an environment where your talents will be nurtured, and your ideas will have a real impact. We are seeking Production Operatives to join our dynamic team.
This two-bedroom semi-detached home is located within a quiet cul-de-sac and enjoys an elevated position with front and rear garden. Offered with no onward chain, the property is conveniently located just a short walk from the town centre, local school, and convenience store.
Charity & Business Administrator role (Part-time) The role North Highland Initiative is seeking to appoint a Charity and Business Administrator to support the effective delivery of NHI’s programmes and governance activities. This is a part time position (16-20 hours per week) on an 18-month fixed term contract, mostly based in our Wick office, with flexible working arrangements available.
Here at Riverside house care home we are seeking a compassionate and dedicated full time nightshift care assistant working a rolling rota of four nights on and four nights off to join our team. Rate of pay paid weekly is £13.45 per hour plus £1.00 (£14.45) in addition to your normal rate of pay.
Pet ownership costs in the UK are rising sharply—especially for vet bills and food, while insurance is becoming more competitive but still shaped by rising claims costs. Prospective owners should budget carefully and expect higher, less predictable expenses.
The BBC has announced Sutherland, an original new sci-fi thriller set in Scotland and Space, made by World Productions Scotland (Vigil), part of ITV Studios, and written and created by James Smythe (All Her Fault) for BBC iPlayer, BBC One and BBC Scotland. The six-part drama will star Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Fuze, Loki), Stuart Martin (Army of Thieves, In Flight) and Iain De Caestecker (Roadkill, The Winter King).
Recruitment is now underway for a Neighbourhood Board Chair in Sutherland to support almost £20 million of funding awarded by the UK Government’s Pride in Place Programme. The Pride in Place Programme aims to build stronger communities and put power into the hands of local people, supporting them to decide how to regenerate their local area.
Here at Riverside house care home in Wick we are seeking to employ full or part time kitchen assistants to join our team. Duties include washing of dishes, setting up trolleys and keeping the kitchen clean and tidy, this position will be a mix of shifts 9am-3pm or 3.30pm-7pm, hours can be discussed.
Imenco Future Technologies is an innovation-driven company specialising in high-quality vision systems, subsea sensors and acoustic solutions. We collaborate closely with our customer partners in the offshore energy, defence, and maritime sectors to solve their unique operational challenges by applying core technical knowledge in optics, sound propagation and AI enabled electronic systems.
There once was a voter in Kent, Whose wages were already spent, With eggs and with oil. And Mandelson’s toil, And wars that came highly event.
See poster for full details. 2nd 3rd 4th July.
As a researcher investigating how electric brain stimulation can improve people’s powers of recollection, I’m often asked how memory works – and what we can do to use it more effectively. Happily, decades of research have given us some clear answers to both questions.
Community groups and organisations across rural Highland are invited to apply to the fund, which is now open for Expressions of Interest for grants of up to £25,000 until 24 April. Following this deadline, a small grants pot will open on 28 April, with applications accepted on a rolling basis.
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