Our latest cover stars are Academy students Evie Nicol and Rachel Wright, who went behind the scenes at Fortrose Community Fire Station and discovered why it’s such a vital part of the Black Isle. Find out more in the Spring edition of Chatterbox.

When Duncan Ross of Poyntzfield learned about the vehicle convoys to Ukraine, he was determined to give his support. He describes the journey there and what he found in a country at war.

Black Isle Cares has been helping local people for 10 years. Elaine Fetherston, its Befriending Co-ordinator, tells us what the charity has achieved in that time and its hopes for the future.

A stint as Cromarty Arts Trust’s Poet in Residence proved such an inspiration for Caroline Burrows that she now lives in the village. We learn how she found her way here, where she tours around the Highlands, and why she’s sometimes accompanied by a tuba.

Avoch AFC won the Premier Division Cup last season, but they think they can do even better this time around. With kick-off just around the corner, club secretary George Patience looks forward to a new season – and a new pitch.

Out of doors, Chatterbox reporter Sandy Mitchell takes a walk along the Black Isle’s Moray Firth beaches and finds some spectacular wintering birds there. He also reveals some of the superstitions that help keep local fishermen afloat.

It’s not long until the latest Crime and Thrillers Weekend takes place. Find out which big names will be coming to Cromarty in May.

Eye problems? Avoch optician Frances Jamieson offers advice on combatting dry, watery and red eyes.

All this – and more – in the new Chatterbox, still only £2. Don’t miss your copy!

Russell Turner
Editor