Shetlands hit by 'unusual' 3.3 quake

AN earthquake measuring 3.3 on the Richter scale hit the Shetlands today.

Residents were woken at 5.30am by the tremor, which caused a large bang and houses to shake.

A British Geological Survey spokesman said it was "unusual" as the area was not known for its seismic activity.

Dr Aoife O' Mongain added: "People said it felt like a train passing right outside their house. Activity also appeared on the chart in Plockton in the Western Isles but has not travelled as far as Edinburgh."

There were no reports of injury or damage to property.