Latest News
For press or media enquiries please contact the communications team by email.
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FSS warns consumers over potentially unsafe whisky and gin
Food Standards Scotland (FSS) is urgently warning consumers not to purchase or consume any whisky or gin products manufactured by Kimbland Distillery Ltd, as these products may pose a risk to health.
16 December 2025
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Orkney receives Japanese gift in time for Christmas
Orkney has become the most northerly location to receive a gift of cherry blossom trees from a friendship project between Japan and the UK.
16 December 2025
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Applications open for 2025–26 VACMA Awards
The second round of funding is open to applications for the 2025–26 Visual Artists and Craft Makers (VACMA) Awards, offering support for Orkney-based artists to develop new directions in their practice and deepen their skills.
15 December 2025
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St Magnus Cathedral’s organ due to undergo major refurbishment
A tender document has been published for the major refurbishment of the organ at St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall.
15 December 2025
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Orkney Islands Council and NHS Orkney Submit Public Service Reform Proposals to Government
Orkney’s Elected Members, NHS Orkney Board Members and Integration Joint Board all give green light to exploring closer working between organisations
12 December 2025
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Roads update for week starting 15/12/25
A summary of road delays and closures due to road and building/utility works and events for the week starting Monday 15/12/2025.
12 December 2025
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UHI Orkney secures funding for new state of the art laboratory
Plans have been approved by Orkney Islands Council for the Archaeology Institute at UHI Orkney to establish a new environmental archaeology laboratory.
The Council’s Policy and Resources committee approved a plan for the redevelopment of existing UHI Orkney assets into a state-of-the-art facility known as the Archaeology and the Environment Science (AEonS) facility – one of only two in the UK.
12 December 2025
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Bus Festive Season Services 2025–2026
The following arrangements will apply for bus services over the Festive Period.
10 December 2025
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Kirkwall Travel Centre Christmas Opening Hours
Thursday 25 December – Closed, Friday 26 December - Closed, Sunday 28 December - Closed, Thursday 1 January - Closed, Friday 2 January - Closed, Sunday 4 January – Closed
10 December 2025
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Orkney 2025 Island Games leaves economic impact and enduring legacy
A new report evaluating the impact of the 20th International Island Games has revealed that Orkney 2025 added £4 million to the island’s economy, and has left a powerful legacy for local sport, infrastructure, and community spirit.
10 December 2025
