Ross-shire Journal at 150: ‘Still keeping our communities connected’
As the Ross-shire Journal marks its 150th anniversary, we invited some of our regular contacts to reflect on the milestone.
Wanda Mackay, Black Isle-based youth development officer
“Wow, 150 years from snail mail to instant social media posts! I would like to congratulate and say a huge thank you to your team for your positive energy and sharing our stories, helping bring our community together and staying more connected. It means such a lot to us - we look forward each week to the valuable updates and are so grateful. You can’t see me but I’m smiling right now.”
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Fiona Dalgetty, chief executive of Fèis Rois
“At Fèis Rois, we recognise the importance and value of local media and are grateful for the supportive community the Ross-Shire Journal fosters.
“It's not quite 150 years, but we will celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2026 and, in the lead up to this, have been enjoying looking back through press cuttings from The Ross-shire, telling our story of growth over the past four decades. We wish the Ross-shire Journal every success for the next 150 years!”
Jamie Stone, Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP
“This is deeply personal - but the Ross-shire has a special place in my heart. When my father Reggie Stone died very suddenly and unexpectedly back in 1986, the then editor David Watt wrote such a very nice piece in the paper about him. A local paper that has always been truly in touch with local people.”
Joanie Whiteford, Lord Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty
“In my role I feel it is hugely important to both support and highlight all those amazing volunteers within our communities who work so hard to make lives better for those around them, and the Ross-shire Journal continues to do this so effectively in a world where negative stories always seem to make the headlines.
“Whether in print or digitally, the Ross-shire Journal is as important now as it was all those years ago as its coverage undoubtedly helps strengthen our communities.”
Maree Todd, Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MP
“For 150 years, the Ross-shire Journal has been delivering trusted news, amplifying local voices, and keeping the local community informed about the issues that matter most.
“As a local politician, I regularly hear from constituents who reference stories they've read in the Ross-shire—proof of just how widely read and respected it is. Whether holding decision-makers to account or celebrating community achievements, the paper continues to be an invaluable source of local information and conversation.
“In an era where local news faces many challenges, it’s more important than ever to support the publications that keep our communities connected. Congratulations on this milestone - here’s to many more years of dedicated journalism and impactful storytelling.”
Janette Douglas, The Place youth group, Alness
“The Ross-shire Journal plays a huge part in the life of our charity. It has supported our charity for over 35 years and reported on the highs and lows we have faced over the years. For parents, grannies, grandads, aunts, uncles and friends, they get to see what their children have been up to.
“Also as so many of our youngsters work towards recognised qualifications when they take part in our activities, we are able to use the press coverage as hard evidence for their portfolios. Social media plays a huge part in getting news out there - however nothing feels as good as holding a newspaper in your hands. Old school? Maybe but some things are best left untouched!”
Karen Cormack, Dingwall Academy head teacher
“We are all so aware that almost all young people get their news from social media and other online sources, and yet, there is still real excitement when a photograph or article appears in the Ross-shire Journal! The paper has been a great support to Dingwall Academy over the years and we congratulate them on this milestone.”
While you’re here…
As we mark our milestone, if you value our content, why not take advantage of a time-limited offer to get online access to all of our Highland News and Media content for a full 12 months for just £10? That includes sister titles like the Inverness Courier, Northern Times and John o’ Groat Journal all accessed through a handy app and available as easy to read e-editions. To find out more and subscribe, use the promo code HECTORMACKENZIE here. Thanks for your support!
