Orkney’s biggest Strip the Willow…

Celebrations, including a special Strip the Willow dance on Kirkwall’s Broad Street, will take place today, marking the arrival of the Tall Ships to Orkney.

At 4pm, there will be a civic ceremony to unveil a commemorative plaque, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the design of Kirkwall Pier, by Thomas Telford. Members of Kirkwall City Pipe Band will perform at the unveiling.

At 6.30pm, members of the public are invited to participate in Orkney’s biggest outdoors Strip the Willow, in Broad Street.  This event is open to all, and assembly takes place at the steps of the St Magnus Cathedral, at 6pm. The dance will be led by Lord-Lieutenant of Orkney, Dr Tony Trickett, with music again from the Kirkwall City Pipe Band.