On 2 February German forces in Stalingrad finally surrendered, though up to 10,000 men would still fight on in the cellars and rubble during the coming weeks and months: of the 91,000 who were marched off to captivity only 6,000 ever made it back to Germany. Also this week, Rommel retreated further into Tunisia which the Allies now entered for the first time.
In the John O’Groat Journal, “Norseman” observed that “On the plains of Caithness February is perhaps the most unattractive month of the year… This year the month has been preceded with an almost snowless January – which is rare indeed – and outdoor work on farms has gained in consequence.” He also noted that wildlife in Caithness was different than in other times: “In many districts rabbits, which were a menace to farmers, have become scarce, and only on certain favoured moors can grouse be seen in any numbers at all,” though as he says, the latter is probably a result of wartime shooting restrictions.
The Head Teacher of Bilbster School reported on 3 February: “There is another big drop in the attendance this week – 67.5% – several children absent with heavy colds & influenza”. And, as if that wasn’t enough: “Mr McHardy [the Director of Education] visited the school… to see if the plumbers had repaired a burst pipe & choked drain, but so far no plumber has appeared.”
The John O’Groat Journal reported the debate by Caithness Food Committee over the right of fishermen’s wives to sell fish around the streets of Thurso, for which they needed a licence: “Mr Anderson explained that the women sold the fish caught by their husbands, but if it happened that their husbands were not at sea they would still be entitled to an allocation from other landings, provided they were licenced to sell.”
But some objected, on the grounds that this was unfair to shopkeepers who had to have their shops inspected. In the end, the women’s licences were granted: As one member put it, “I am not going to be a party to any infliction of a hard and fast rule to deprive these women of their right to sell fish.”
Finally this week, Canisbay enjoyed a successful Burns Concert at the Public Hall 
according to the John O’Groat Journal, with much of the entertainment provided by local troops as well as local talent: “A popular feature was the appearance of the “Hill Billies” Band, finely supported by Sergt. Peacock. Artistes from Wick were also present. Three charming girls delighted the audience with bagpipe music and displays of Highland dancing. Music for the dances was provided by Piper J. Christie.”
