Applications open for Summer camps in Portree and Kyleakin

There’s just four weeks left to apply for this summer’s IB Sports football camps in Portree and Kyleakin.

The popular event returns from 13th to 17th July 2026, offering structured coaching for children and young people. Organisers say places are limited.

“Expect a well-run, fun environment for your young footballer with their pals, out in the fresh air, getting active.” – Tony Bryson

Among the coaching team this year is Raith Rovers First Team Performance Analyst Tony Bryson, who also works as an Active Schools Co-ordinator in East Renfrewshire. Tony will lead the Portree camp this Summer and oversee the new Advanced Camp.

He said:

“If you’re sending your young footballer along, they will get skills-based challenges and a set curriculum to enjoy themselves. There’s a plan to develop different areas of the game like dribbling, 1-v-1 challenges, small-sided games, and shooting.

“It’s just as important for any young person who lives on an island or in rural spots across the country to get access to all the benefits that sport can bring.

“For the footballers that come to the camp in Skye, it’s just about coming, enjoying yourself, putting your best foot forward, and as I always say to young people, say yes to things. If the opportunity to come and coach comes up, say yes to it. If the opportunity to try out for another team comes up, say yes to it. You never know what could happen.

“Expect a well-run, fun environment for your young footballer with their pals, out in the fresh air, getting active.”

IB Sports Head Coach Tony Bryson

As well as returning coaches, the staff feature a host of news faces. Joining the team will be Marya Iqbal who has lots of experience as a player and coach. Marya’s played an important role in growing the girls game at Scotlands biggest youth football club – Giffnock Soccer Centre.

She said:

“I’m really looking forward to working at the football camp on the Isle of Skye this summer, especially as it will be my first one with IB sports. Coaching is all I’ve ever done, and it’s something I’m truly passionate about.

“Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to gain valuable experience and opportunities coaching in the United States, which has helped develop my understanding of the game. I’m excited to bring that experience with me, learn from everyone involved, and hopefully add something positive to the camps this Summer.”

In Kyleakin, the Academy Camp will be led by Broadford’s Donald Fraser, who has previously worked with Aberdeen FC. He is joined by new Head Coach Andy Scott, who brings more than 20 years coaching experience from around the world, including time spent working in China.

Also joining the coaching team this year is Ally Macleod, originally from Waternish, who has played at Highland League level and professionally in Australia. Jake Wilson returns to Portree after a successful camp last summer.

As well as specialist coaching, participants will take part in a World Cup-style tournament across the week.

IB Sports, which is based in Skye and the UAE, has built a strong following locally in recent years.

The organisation is also continuing its “Sponsor a Child” scheme in partnership with the Children’s Trust, offering free places to families in need. A number of local businesses and individuals have already contributed this year, with organisers saying they are close to meeting their target.

Applications for the Portree and Kyleakin camps are now open online.

Glenelg ferry manager raises petition against ‘super pylon’ plan

The general manager of the Glenelg-Skye ferry has raised a petition against plans for 15 super pylons to be sited on the Kylerhea side of the crossing.

The petition has been raised by Jo Crawford is the general manager of the Isle of Sky Ferry Community Interest Company, which operates the famous turntable vessel.

In her petition, Ms Crawford argues that the historic crossing point of the ferry is under threat by the proposals which are part Scottish and Southern Electricity Network’s Skye reinforcement Plan.

As of Tuesday morning, the petition had attracted close to 800 signatures.

More than 600 Skye and Lochalsh residents impacted by water supply problems

Water supplies are restoring for around 300 customers in Kyle, Strome Ferry and surroundings areas following the removal of trapped air in the network.

Scottish Water said its teams have completed the works to remove trapped air which occurred following an initial fault at the Kyle Water Treatment Works on Sunday.

Customers may may experience no water supply, low / intermittent pressure or discoloured water while the water is being restored.

Scottish Water are due to provide a final update on the situation at 9am this morning.

Meanwhile, repairs to a burst water main at the Dunvegan Osedale water treatment works have also been completed.

The issue which occurred on Saturday around 3pm, left 320 resident in north Skye from Dunvegan to Portree with no water for almost two days.

Scottish Waters says its tankers may still be in the area to ensure levels are maintained following the interruption to supply.

Scottish Water said its wished to thanked customers across Skye and Lochalsh for their patience and understanding during the outage.

Perthshire pipe band to perform on Skye

Comrie Pipe Band will play at Talisker Distillery today as part of their two-day visit to Skye.

The band arrived on Monday and performed at the Woodend Road Co-op last night.

The Perthshire band are also scheduled to play alongside the Isle of Skye Pipe at 8pm tonight at Somerled Square in Portree.

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