Wet-weather route for Riding of the Marches

The annual Riding the Marches will take place on Sunday — the 30th re-enactment since its revival in 1986, when it was performed as part of the celebrations to mark the 500th anniversary of the granting of Kirkwall’s Royal Charter by King James III.

This year’s standard bearer is Christina Bichan, riding her horse Drumcarrow Lara.

Christina will flanked by Katie Coward, who had the honour in 2013, and next year’s standard bearer, Sharon Nixon.

The procession begins in Broad Street, Kirkwall, at 2pm, and heads down Albert Street and Bridge Street, before heading out to Weyland, through Annfield Crescent on to Berstane Road to Berstane Loan, then down Inganess Loan, Easdale Loan on to the Holm Road, before heading down the Holm Branch and out to Scapa for 3.30pm.

The carriages follow a different route, visiting Lambaness, St Rognvald House and Eunson Kloss; however, both groups will arrive at Scapa Beach and return to Broad Street simultaneously.

The horses and riders will follow the same route as in previous years after the stop at Scapa Beach.

Organisers say they have received over 80 entries for the day, and wish to take the opportunity to remind the public that horses can be dangerous.

Spectators are very welcome at Broad Street but, for their own safety, are reminded that they should only view the event from behind the barriers, and please keep a safe distance from the procession at all other times.

Vehicle drivers who may encounter the horses and carriages during the afternoon are again urged to be careful and considerate, as they have been in previous years.