Why not shop for a unique gift

VisitScotland’s Stornoway iCentre is encouraging islanders to support local artisans in the run-up to Christmas, as part of its Shop Local initiative.
The iCentre in Stornoway supports a number of local artisan crafts people.The iCentre in Stornoway supports a number of local artisan crafts people.
The iCentre in Stornoway supports a number of local artisan crafts people.

The national tourism body’s information point in Cromwell Street is offering a 15% discount on its retail products from December 21-23 for those looking for last-minute festive gifts.

The offer marks the iCentre changing to its winter opening hours from now until the end of March 2021: Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 10am-4pm (closed for lunch 12.30-1pm).

The iCentre reopened in August as the country came out of lockdown and since September it has taken over in-person Citylink bus ticket sales from CalMac.

Shop Local, which has been running since 2017, gives communities, local businesses, craft makers, artists, designers and other artisans the opportunity to promote and sell their products to visitors via the VisitScotland iCentre network.

Businesses new to Shop Local at the Stornoway iCentre in 2020 are: Rarebird – Paulette Brough has spent a lifetime working in textiles, design and heritage crafts before founding Rarebird in 2007 after moving to live in the Outer Hebrides. All designs and accessories are made in her small Stornoway studio.

Hebridean Candles – Each candle is hand blended and poured by Robin and Michelle Spratt in their workshop in Grimsay in North Uist.

Anthony Barber – Anthony paints full time in his studio gallery just above the harbour and beach in the Port of Ness on the Isle of Lewis.

Other local producers include Harris Tweed, Daisy’s Cold Water Surf Cream, The Hebridean Soap Company and Joan MacDonald.

Chris Taylor, at VisitScotland, said: “Our research tells us how important local produce is for our visitors, helping create a real authentic experience that customers value. At VisitScotland, we are committed to supporting and showcasing local producers in the Hebrides.

“Shop Local is a fantastic initiative and we’d encourage islanders looking for a gift to pop into our Stornoway iCentre and support the wonderful array of artisans from across the Outer Hebrides. Our staff are also always on hand to provide visitor information, and deal with ticket enquiries.”

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