The Shetland Times has been printed on its native island for the last time as printing of the weekly title is being switched to Dundee.
It will also be in full colour and in a more “compact” – tabloid – size under changes instigated by new owner, the Inverness-based Highland News & Media which bought it for an undisclosed sum.
The change of ownership ends a 131-year family connection with the newspaper. Previous owner Robert Wishart warned the paper could close after 153 years of publication unless a new owner was found.
In a statement today, Mr Wishart said: “A few weeks ago I feared that not only our family ties to the paper, but the newspaper itself was finished.
“Now I’m delighted that Steve Barron and Highland News & Media have raced to ensure continuity of production following our abrupt decision to end printing of the paper at Gremista.”
The new owner’s managing director Steve Barron said: “The Shetland Times is an excellent local newspaper, which passionately represents and champions the community it serves – credit to long-term owners Robert and June Wishart who have clearly been committed to local journalism and the Shetland community.
“These values are closely aligned with our own.
“The method of consumption may be changing, but local news is as important as ever. By supporting our new colleagues in Shetland, we’ll make sure that their important work continues.
“Our team is excited to add a well-respected local newspaper to our portfolio.”
The bookshop and the book publishing business affiliated with the paper will continue.
Highland News & Media also publishes the Inverness Courier, the Northern Scot and six other local papers in the north of Scotland.
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