Unlucky for some, but not for 13 organisations in the Skye and Lochalsh Enterprise (SALE) area who were awarded Investors in People status (IiP) at a ceremony in Plockton yesterday (Thursday 1st June).

The 13 groups, ranging from clothing manufacturers to training and development organisations, received their IiP awards from Douglas MacDairmid, head of developing skills at Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Among those to receive IiP status, a national award that promotes the development of staff and skills, were the owners of the Plockton Hotel. Tom and Dorothy Pearson employ a core staff of 14 and have recently opened a new extension to their award winning premises.

Family-run business, MacDonald Bros, is the first construction company in the area to receive IiP and the Skye Riding Centre, which was recently adapted in order to cater for disabled clients was also recognised.

Other business and organisations who were awarded IiP status include the An Tuireann Arts Centre, Auchtertyre Primary School, Bella Jane Boat Trips, the Royal Hotel in Portree, Lochalsh Training and Development, Isle of Skye Seafoods Ltd, the Central Filling Station in Kyle, Cioch Direct, Eisd Music and Portree Post Office, and Feisean nan Gaidheal.