Norwegian Constitution Day celebrations

Orkney’s special friendship with Norway will be celebrated today when the annual Norwegian Constitution Day celebrations take place.

The day will begin at 10.30am with a remembrance service at the Norwegian war graves in St Olaf’s Cemetery.

At 12 noon the parade, known as a tog, will set off from the pierhead to the Kirk Green, led by members of the Kirkwall City Pipe Band, Norwegian visitors, school children and any members of the public who would like to join in.

When the tog arrives outside the St Magnus Cathedral the Norwegian national anthem will be played, followed by a welcome speech from Orkney Islands Council’s Convener Harvey Johnston. Norwegian guest of honour Dr Eva Robards will then make a reply speech. Dr Robards is the current chairman of CoScan – the Confederation of Scandinavian Societies.

Kirkwall City Pipe Band will then perform at around 12.30pm followed by the Orkney Norway Friendship Association concert in the cathedral, featuring pupils from Stromness Academy – donations will be welcome at the door.

Norwegian Constitution Day will end with the Orkney Norway Friendship Association Dinner Dance at the Commodore this evening.