News / In brief for 12 May 2011
Speeding
THREE drivers were stopped by police for breaking the 20mph speed limit outside Sound primary school, in Lerwick, during Northern Constabulary’s “day of action” on speeding and seatbelts on Wednesday.
Inspector Eddie Graham said that two drivers had been issued with fixed penalties, while a third had been reported to the procurator fiscal.
He said: “It’s disappointing that we still have individuals involved in speeding offences particularly outside schools. Motorists should be mindful of the very real dangers in relation to children and pedestrian traffic.”
Coastguard concern
THE CHAIRWOMAN of the House of Commons transport select committee has voiced her “disappointment” at Shetland coastguard officers being ordered not to give evidence on plans to close the Lerwick station.
Louise Ellman MP said shipping minister Mike Penning had gone back on his word that coastguard personnel could give evidence.
She said: “A month ago the minister gave a commitment to Parliament that all staff would be able to give evidence to the select committee and we have already received written evidence from these same coastguards. This is a matter of great concern.”
Bigton shop
MORE than 40 local people turned out to a meeting to discuss a community buy out of the shop in Bigton on Wednesday.
The whole community is to be asked if they support the venture and how much they would be prepared to invest if a community benefit society was set up and registered with the Financial Services Authority.
Tingwall & Girlsta
FOLK in Tingwall and Girlsta are being invited to plan their future, with the council canvassing local opinions on public transport, renewable energy, local employment, the environment, communications, housing and local community issues.
The Tingwall and Girlsta Profile Steering Group was set up a year ago and has developed a set of questions to be sent to every household in the area. A specific questionnaire has been prepared for young people and P7 pupils at Tingwall primary school.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
“We feel it is very important to obtain the views of young and old alike,” chairman Andrew Hughson said.
The results will help the council draw up a draft community profile which will be presented at a public meeting. Anyone who does not receive a questionnaire can contact area community worker Mick Clifton on 01595 745303.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.