He is the long-serving chairman of Latheron, Lybster, Clyth Community Council and one of his priorities would be to continue the work of retired councillor Billy Mowat in campaigning for a Berriedale bypass.

Mr Sutherland was born in the family croft at Caberfeidh, Landhallow, Latheron, where he still resides. For many years along with his late wife, Nancy, he ran a successful hotel business – firstly at the Latheronwheel Hotel, better known locally as “the Blends”, then at the Sutherland Arms Hotel, Golspie, and latterly at the Mansfield House Hotel in Tain.

“I was vice-chairman of the Latheron, Lybster, Clyth Community Council in the ’70s and I am presently serving my third term of office as chairman,” he says. “After a long battle we were able to secure the services of two excellent doctors for Lybster Medical Centre and, when the local fire unit came under threat of closure, we persuaded Highland and Islands Fire Brigade to maintain a presence in Lybster of a unit for road traffic accidents and heath and moorland fires. We have also been able to open and upgrade several footpaths in our community council area.

“I served in the City of Glasgow Police for four years before entering the hotel trade. I am a strong believer in law and order and a stronger police presence on the streets in our towns and villages.

“I firmly believe in nuclear energy as the best way forward to meet our energy needs in the future.

“I have met lots of Caithness people who have asked me why I have not stood as an independent. But I have been a lifelong Conservative supporter and would rather be honest with the electorate. I will continue Councillor W.A. Mowat’s fight for a bypass at Berriedale and for more money to be spent on the upgrading and maintenance of our trunk and rural roads which are, quite frankly, in a dreadful state of repair. If elected, I would represent the Landward electors of Caithness without fear or favour.”

Printer friendly version

Email this article to a friend

Bookmark this

---