17 December 2025

Local Headlines - 17 December 2025

Three Independent bookshops in the Highlands have contributed to a National Report on the Cultural and Community Role of Scottish Bookshops. 

Bookshops in Ullapool, Nairn and Portree were among those involved in examining the cultural enrichment and community engagement of the industry. 

The Report shed a spotlight on the growing part that Bookshops play in our local communities highlighting their role in fostering children's literacy, promoting small publishers and supporting local authors. 


SSEN Distribution have launched a new partnership with Asthma and Lung UK to raise awareness of extra power cut support for people with lung conditions.

More than a million customers are already signed up and benefiting from extra support through Priority Services. 

The partnership will enable many individuals with asthma and other lung conditions to access additional support, depending on the specific nature and severity of their condition.

The benefits of signing up for Priority Services include advance notice of disruption to their electricity supply, a personalized Power Cut Plan and a dedicated support line.

Former Dingwall Academy pupil Fin Graham has been named ‘Para Athlete of the Year’ at the Scottish Sports Awards in Glasgow.

The cyclist, who was born in the Borders and later moved to Strathpeffer in the Highlands, has won eight world championships in four years.

He will now represent Scotland at the Commonwealth Games, which is returning to Glasgow next year.

Portable North Pole, the world’s leading Santa app, has introduced a new way for families to experience Santa Claus.

The new ‘Talk to Santa’ option lets children have real-time conversations with Santa, share their wishes, and get personalized responses.  

The AI system uses advanced speech recognition and was developed with parents to provide safe, warm and engaging conversations. Every exchange adheres to rigorous standards to ensure both safety and suitability.