The German attempt to break through Soviet lines to relieve the trapped Sixth Army came within 30 miles of the city but was finally called off on 24 December: it had failed through a combination of Soviet counter-attacks, bad weather and the inability of the Sixth Army to respond. Also on 24 December the French Admiral in control of North Africa, who had switched over to the Allies when they invaded in November, was assassinated in Algiers.
The John O’Groat Journal offered a retrospective on the Halladale harvest: “The ingathering of the harvest this year was much hindered by winds, rain and flooding, and latterly by a storm of snow which fortunately did not last long. Although many of the crofters have had losses, yet they feel more hopeful in knowing that sheep and potato subsidies are to be continued.”
In Dunbeath, however, the focus was already on the next harvest: “Ploughing has begun in the district. Mr W.A. Mackenzie of Ramscraigs has a fair portion of ground finished. Others are busy getting out their manure.”
Across the county, schools were breaking up for the Christmas holidays. The Dunnet Public School log book records that on 23 December: “School closed to-day for the Christmas Vacation. The average attendance was 99.1%. As usual, the children with their parents and friends enjoyed their Xmas Party during the afternoon. Mr Moir presided and a programme of songs, sketches, recitations and singing games were given by the children. Tea was served by members of the W.R.I. committee.”
The John O’Groat Journal reported the death of Private Duncan Macphee of Harpsdale, Halkirk, who had been serving with the Seaforths. As the paper noted, “This is the first casualty among the Caithness tinkers, and it is a sad reminder of the part that the Clan Macphee is playing in this war, as in the last. Members of the Macphee clan are serving in the Navy, Army and R.A.F.”
Finally this week, preparations were underway to celebrate the Old New Year with the traditional supper, dance and cabaret show. Presided over by “Miss 1943”, in the person of Miss Irene Davidson of Willowbank, Wick, it was scheduled for 13th January in the Breadalbane Ballroom.
