Orkney set to mark Norwegian Constitution Day

A parade celebrating Orkney and Norway’s special friendship will once again march through the streets of Kirkwall next Tuesday, May 17.

Having been cancelled for the last few years, the Tog will again take centerstage as Orcadians and Norwegians alike mark Norwegian Constitution Day.

The day will begin at 10.30am with a remembrance service at the Norwegian war graves in St Olaf’s Cemetery. Stagecoach will be providing official guests with transport for the Kirkwall pier head to the cemetery at 10am.

At midday, the Tog will be lead by members of the Kirkwall Pipe Band from the pier head to the market green. It will include Norwegian visitors, school children and any members of the public who wish to join in.

Upon arrival at St Magnus Cathedral the Norwegian national anthem will be played, followed by a speech from Orkney Island Council’s newly appointed convener.

Hans Olav Fjell, the Norwegian guest of honour and a former chairman of the Orkney Norway Friendship Association’s sister association in Norway, will make the reply.

The Kirkwall Pipe Band are scheduled to perform at about 12.30pm and there will then be a concert by the Orkney Norway Friendship Association, featuring pupils from Kirkwall Grammar School, in the Cathedral.

Donations will be welcome at the door.

The Orkney Norway Friendship Association would like to welcome anyone to come and join in the day’s events.