Hans J Marter

3 January, 2008

TRANSPORT links to the northern isles have been disrupted after ferry operator NorthLink cancelled its sailings tonight (Thursday) due to severe weather.

Friday night's schedule to and from Orkney and Shetland is currently under review and could also be halted.

NorthLink made its decision as bitterly cold easterly winds bring the first snow of this winter to the Scottish mainland.

The disruption will cause inconvenience to travellers returning home either to the isles or the UK mainland after the Christmas holiday period.

It will also create difficulties for local shops with supplies already running low after the long festive period.

NorthLink chief executive Bill Davidson said all booked passengers had been contacted by the company and had the situation explained to them.

Mr Davidson added that the previous night's sailings had gone ahead but very rough seas had made for uncomfortable crossings.

"Once again we'd like to apologise for the disruption to travel plans but I'm sure people would agree that safety and comfort must be our first priority," he said.

"We will continue to monitor the weather conditions but, currently, all services for Friday are under review. Details will continue to be posted on the NorthLink website at www.northlinkferries.co.uk."