This week marks 100 years since the battle of Jutland, and Orkney is playing a big part in commemorations. Over the weekend we saw the arrival of several BBC lorries for filming the events as well as a Navy ships, a fleet of bullet proof cars, sniffer dogs, police and security.
Orkney has also been hosting the beautiful weeping window poppies as they tour the country. So fitting to be here in time for the commemorations.
Just like at home when expecting visitors we tend to whip round with the vacuum and throw things in cupboards, Orkney has had a spruce up with streets being cleaned and tidied up and a lick of paint here and there in preparation. We should see the arrival of several VIPs including The Duke of Edinburgh, Princess Anne, MP’s and high ranking Navy officials and many more.
There will also be the unveiling of the wall at the Kitchener Memorial to mark 100 years since the HMS Hampshire sank off the coast of Orkney and 737 men lost their lives. The wall names all those who perished and among them was Lord Kitchener who was famously on the ‘your country needs YOU’ poster.
It’s a busy but moving and poignant time for all involved. Relatives are invited to services held at the Cathedral and at Hoy and there are big screens in place. Highlights will also be shown on so no one need miss out.