Half a tank, half a tank, Half a tank onward, All in the diesel queue Waiting and worried. “Forward for fuel once more!” Governments thundered.
At the moment, rationing of petrol and diesel in the UK or most Western countries is still considered a last-resort scenario rather than something imminent. But the risk has clearly risen because the oil market is now relying heavily on emergency reserves rather than normal supply flows.
Who really governs Britain? In this video, I explore the hidden political power of the City of London Corporation and the offshore finance network linked to it. Most people have heard of the City of London, but very few understand that it operates under a unique constitutional structure unlike anything else in the UK.
Parents urged to claim Child Benefit for their new baby to avoid missing out. 6.8 million families are claiming Child Benefit more than 30% of new parents are missing out on payments by not claiming in their baby’s first year parents urged to claim via the HMRC app to ensure they get their payment as quickly as possible One in three new parents are missing out on Child Benefit payments in their baby’s first year, new figures reveal.
British businesses stand to benefit from billions in fresh financing being unlocked through reforms to the bank ring-fencing regime. Reforms to ring‑fencing to create a more agile and proportionate regime that reduces duplication within banks and removes barriers to lending and investment.
North East Rig Out (NERO), a long‑established Aberdeen workwear and PPE supplier, has gone into liquidation after more than four decades in business. Eight jobs have been lost, and the liquidators were blunt about the cause: a prolonged downturn in the energy market and a sharp reduction in orders from oil and gas clients.
The Highland Council is showcasing the region’s ambitious Invest Highland programme at a national event this week at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) 2026 in Leeds. The Leader of the Council, Cllr Raymond Bremner, alongside Council Officers and Calum MacPherson of Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport will attend this year’s UKREiiF which exists to connect people, places, and businesses to accelerate investment, foster development, and drive sustainable regeneration across the UK.
The IMF raised its UK growth forecast mainly because the economy has recently shown more strength than expected, despite global shocks. The Fund now expects 1% growth instead of 0.8% for 2026, and it attributes this upgrade to several concrete factors.
The government will modernise the Consumer Credit Act for the first time in over 50 years, giving consumers clearer information and firms the flexibility to innovate. Landmark legislation, first passed over 50 years ago, modernised to reflect how people use credit today.
After 2039 Flood insurance will no longer be subsidised. Prices will reflect real flood risk.
The April 2026 ONS bulletin reveals how cost of living pressures are felt differently across age groups, and when woven together, the picture is one of a society grappling with shared challenges but experiencing them in distinct ways. For younger adults, particularly those aged 16 to 29, the cost of living crisis is most sharply defined by the struggle to afford housing and secure stable employment.
there is evidence that China is helping Iran economically and diplomatically, but there is much less clear public evidence of direct Chinese military intervention in the war itself. The strongest and clearest evidence involves oil.
Three of the world's most powerful militaries are simultaneously stuck in conflicts they cannot win. Russia has not defeated Ukraine after four years.
China has just opened what is widely described as the world’s largest open-sea solar power project. A huge offshore installation off the coast of Dongying in Shandong province developed by CHN Energy.
British citizens and regional partners will be better protected against drone attacks as the Royal Air Force deploys a new low-cost anti-drone weapon on operations in the Middle East. UK deploys new low-cost missile system to defend UK citizens and partners in the Middle East from drone attacks.
The latest jump towards $111 a barrel is mainly being driven by renewed fears that the Middle East oil crisis is not easing after all. Traders had briefly hoped the situation around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz might calm down, but those hopes have faded sharply over the last few days.
Why are heating oil prices going down slightly when the oil price is going up?. It is probably a mixture of both seasonal effects and demand resistance from consumers and right now the second factor may actually be becoming more important.
We may not have many of the outlets mentioned in this video but worth thinking about especially if you go to bigger towns or cities. Are there any secret discounts around in Caithness - just ask.
Oil markets appear 'relatively' calm, but beneath the surface, a dangerous shift is taking place. Strategic reserves, oil inventories and spare capacity are being stretched to the limit.
Fuel cards exist, but in the UK they are mostly aimed at businesses, and that’s the key point. However, there are exceptions and a few “workarounds” depending on how you use them.
For decades, many Highland car parks were seen almost as a public right especially in rural communities, tourist beauty spots and smaller towns where parking had traditionally been free. But across the Highlands, and increasingly across the rest of the UK, councils are steadily turning more of these spaces into paid parking areas.
When most people think about tax, they picture a simple list: income tax on wages, National Insurance, VAT on purchases, and perhaps council tax. But in reality, modern taxation is far more layered, more indirect, and increasingly embedded into the way people live rather than just what they earn.
The idea of governments controlling the prices of basic groceries is politically attractive during periods of high inflation because it gives the impression of immediate action against rising living costs. The Scottish National Party and politicians elsewhere in Europe have periodically discussed versions of price intervention on staple goods such as bread, milk, pasta, eggs or vegetables.
See poster..
Manchester is under the microscope due to Andy Burnham getting ready to challenge for a seat as an MP and perhaps further if successful. Manchester has made great stride recently but much of it is founded on increased levels of debt.
Construction insolvencies across Scotland and the UK have risen so sharply that both governments’ housing‑build targets now sit on foundations that are no longer stable. When small firms like Bay Homes on Loch Fyne collapse, it is not an isolated failure but part of a structural contraction in the industry.
Stores Person – Wick Factory imenco.com 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.
Keeping the Light On, James Miller's latest book is an expression of hope that good sense will prevail. Join Jim as he discusses the book with Jamie Stone MP.
A vacancy has arisen for the election of a Councillor to represent Ward 4 East Sutherland and Edderton following the resignation of Jim McGillivray. Ward 4 is a 3-member ward.
Even as the calendar insists it is May, the Highlands often disagree. A stiff northerly wind sweeps across Caithness, the haar rolls in from the sea, and the thermometer hovers stubbornly in the single digits.
Immediate start for for a Kitchen Assistant/Porter. You’ll be the hero behind the scenes – keeping everything clean, organised, and helping the kitchen run like clockwork.
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.
👨🏻🍳 WE ARE LOOKING FOR A CAFE COOK 👩🏻🍳 We are looking for a cook for our busy bakery café. executing our light menu that showcases all of our homemade traditionally baked items with fresh products.
The National Lottery Open Fund for Organisations is a funding programme for artistic, creative and cultural organisations based in Scotland. You can apply for grants of between £1,000 and £100,000 to support creative activity that runs for up to 18 months.
Full time counter assistant at north coast butchers. Hours negotiable.
A spacious 4 bedroom semi-detached house with garage and off road parking, situated in the popular Mount Vernon area of Thurso. Within walking distance of the town centre, the property benefits from easy access to the amenities, services, and transport links expected of a bustling Highland town.
About Us Norscot is a leading manufacturer of high-quality windows, doors, and conservatories in a variety of materials including uPVC, Timber and AluWood. Renowned for superior quality products and customer service, we are committed to delivering exceptional products that meet the needs of both residential and commercial customers.
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.
A & D Sutherland Ltd have vacancies for General labourers. Please apply including your CV to: mark@caithnessflagstone.co.uk.
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.
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..
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Caithness Forums
What's On in Caithness
Property For Sale
Property For Rent
Sutherland Property
Planning Notices
Who Is Building?
Submit Your Details
Other Enquiries
