A Shetland businessman has become the first to throw his hat into the ring for next year’s council election.
Ryan Thomson, owner of Tagon Stores in Voe, has lived most of his life in Unst.
He is to stand as an independent candidate for the North Isles ward, comprising five island communities.
The 31-year-old has been a regular commentator on local issues via social networks and earlier this year set up an online petition in support of cheaper ferry fares for Shetland and Orkney’s lifeline ferry service.
Speaking yesterday, Mr Thomson said: “The next council is vitally important to the North Isles.
“There are going to be further inevitable cuts as Shetland’s funds from Holyrood are expected to be further cut, and I believe the North Isles are particularly vulnerable.”
He added that, if elected, he would passionately defend rural schools and “would strenuously fight against any further cuts to our education system.”
He said he would keep local voters “in the loop” by starting a regular blog, being active on social media, and that he looked forward to meeting as many local people as possible while visiting Unst, Yell, Fetlar, Whalsay and Skerries.
Shetland businessman throws hat into ring for council election
