Emergency group convenes . . .

The Orkney Local Emergency Co-ordinating Group (OLECG) met at lunchtime today to determine a multi-agency response to the phone and electricity outages being reported at various locations throughout Orkney.

Around 55 properties in the Sandwick area are affected by the power outages.  There are extensive issues with phone networks particularly in Kirkwall and in the North Isles.  BT Engineers are due to arrive in the county at 2.00pm to assess the situation.

It’s advised that local people should check in on any vulnerable family members or neighbours in the meantime.  Orkney Health and Care are currently arranging to check on telecare service  users who have been affected.

A further meeting is planned for 4pm and an update will be released in due course.

Orkney Ferries crew will be used to relay this message to folk in the isles.