Virgin Media O2 has installed a communications mast on South Uist as part of a £1bn UK project.

Repairs to MV Caledonian Isles could take another 10 days, and a new ferry being built in Turkey has also been delayed.

MV Hebridean Isles will join the busy service, but redeployments will have a knock-on effect on South Uist.

Western Isles Council is to phase in the change which will see lights go off at 22:00.

Ministers are considering a direct award to the Scottish government-owned operator without a competitive tendering process.

The prickly creatures, which pose a threat to nesting birds, first appeared in the isles 50 years ago.

High salaries are on offer to bring doctors and teachers to Scotland's most beautiful remote communities.

Management take questions on cancellations to services and lengthy delays to new ships.