News • Orkney Crofts - Exquisite, traditional, quality self-catering in the heart of Orkney

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The crew of an Orkney lifeboat is to receive awards from the RNLI for their actions in rescuing a yacht in treacherous seas. Kirkwall second coxswain Stewart Ryrie and the crew went to the aid of the three crew on a 40ft Norwegian-registered yacht Innan.

The nine-hour rescue operation happened off Stronsay last October. Mr Ryrie is to receive a Thanks of the Institution on Vellum. Fellow crew members will also be honoured.

Mr Ryrie's honour is the RNLI's fourth highest gallantry award.

The Byre at Heddle was one of only two private residences on Mainland Orkney to receive a "Highly Commended," award from the Orkney Heritage Society for Architectural Merit in the bi-annual (2007-2009) Laura Grimond Awards.

East Heddle was awarded five star status by the Scottish Tourist Board, August 2009. As of this date 40 % of all 5 star self-catering properties in Orkney are now run by Orkneycrofts.com

Orkneycrofts.com has also been graded at the first time of inspection by the Green Tourism Business Scheme at a Silver Standard for environmental impact and business process.

We are confident that now we understand the full criteria required that we can improve this rating to the Gold award next year.

Orkney Brewery has secured a historic double, taking both first and second place in the prestigious Champion Beer of Scotland competition, which was held in Edinburgh on Thursday.

The brewery's 3.8 per cent Raven Ale won the overall title of Champion Beer, with its 4.0 per cent Red MacGregor ale placing second. The competition forms part of the Scottish Real Ale Festival, currently underway in the capital.