Lairg and District Learning Centre has global reach following coronavirus pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has enabled Lairg and District Learning Centre to "grow and evolve" in ways that could never have been imagined, its manager has said.

Rhionna Mackay spoke out as the centre, which transferred to the virtual world after Covid-19 hit, celebrates its 20th anniversary today.

Over the years the popular facility has held classes in a huge variety of diverse subjects, ranging from Italian to beginner's excel and foraging.

Ms Mackay said: "Introducing online learning has helped us reach students from across the world. The money we make from these classes goes back into subsidising spaces for Sutherland residents, ensuring income is not a barrier to learning.

"We appreciate everyone who has helped at the centre, from the tutors, funders and volunteers who allow our learning to take place, to the community that has supported us, and of course, all our students.

"We cannot wait to see what the next years will bring for the centre."

Next year has been designated Scotland's Year of Stories, a year in which stories inspired by, created in or written in Scotland will be showcased. The centre is planning workshops and events around that theme.

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